Piagetian theory and the teaching of reading

Summary

An attempt is made to reconsider the implications of Piaget's theories for the teaching of reading. It is argued that the way the theories have typically been interpreted in relation to reading is unhelpful and does not accord with the behaviour of young readers. Alternative ways of linking Piagetian theory to the teaching of reading are proposed. It is considered that they both provide a more adequate explanation and offer the teacher more helpful directions along which to develop reading.