아동의 상징놀이에 관한 이론적 고찰: 인지구조적 발달 이론을 중심으로

Symbolic Play Theories of Cognitive-Structural Aspects

The two major theoretical frameworks that have informed research on symbolic play and cognitive development were reviewed. Piaget and Vygotsky had different views of the role of symbolic play in children's development. For Piaget, play is primarily an assimilative activity; that is, in play, children modify reality to fit their existent cognitive schema and desires. In his view, play does not facilitate development, but it is used to consolidate existent concepts. For Vygotsky, play is a precursor to symbolization and is a leading factor in development. Particularly the lack of a sociocultural dimension in Piaget's theory brought about the influence of Vygotsky, for whom this dimension is central. However, the research yielded so far has not fully investigated the wider sociocultural elements that define and inform the play context. This article concludes by suggesting an approach to children's play that is directed by a proper estimation of the interaction between its cognitive, emotional, and sociocultural dimensions.