This method of assessment was termed, "method clinique." Simply stated, in order to determine the growth of knowledge in a child, he believed a structured interview was the best way to measure for learning. (FLAG Editorial Board, 1988-89) The interview process allowed students to express what they knew and how they would apply that knowledge in their own words. This interviewing technique would offer insights not typically obtained by other testing methods.
Piaget's theory can be used in the classroom today at any grade level. Based on his theory, an instructor would ask a student to perform a task while thinking out loud. By having the student converse his thought process, the teacher could identify areas of comprehension and determine areas for development.
Taking the process a step further, the teacher could tape each interview and create a portfolio for each student in the class. At the end of the year, the culmination of the interviews could be viewed to determine the development of the student. By viewing the tapes in succession, the instructor could measure the learning progress that was made throughout the school year.
Conclusion
By applying Piaget's theory to instructional planning and delivery, classroom set-up and management and assessment in a classroom a teacher can effectively challenge an adolescent's cognitive abilities and strengths and create a positive learning environment.
References
Gannon, Sarah (2000). Piaget's Theory of Cognitive Development Applied to the
Classroom. Internet Access on February 26, 2004.
http://www.ic.ac.uk/education/resources/SocSci/piaget.html.
FLAG Editorial Board (1988-89). Classroom Assessment Techniques -
Interviews. Retrieved February 25, 2004, www.flaguide.org/cat/interviews.htm
Funderstanding. (2004). Piaget. Internet Access on February 26, 2004.
http://www.funderstanding.com/piaget.cfm.
University of Phoenix (Ed.) (2002). Child and Adolescent Development. [University of
Phoenix Custom Edition e-text]. Boston, MA: Pearson Custom Publishing.
Yates, Russell (2004). My Teaching Philosophy. Internet Access on February 26, 2004.
http://www.multiage-education.com/russportfolio/teachphilosophy.html.