ABSTRACT
This chapter provides how various theories of learning, including research from neuroscience, help to understand young children as scientists, designers and technologists. It examines frameworks related to the ways in which children make sense of scientific and technological concepts. The chapter considers the thought processes involved in developing scientific and technological understanding in young children. Emphasis is placed on how teachers in Early Years practice can help to lay important foundations for young children to become scientists, designers and technologists. Teachers of young children ought to be alert to what new research from the neurosciences has to offer in helping to understand how children think and learn, alongside more traditional theories of cognitive development. Young children can think and learn in similar ways to adults, but lack experience. For practitioners, this highlights the importance of the nurturing environment in providing and reinforcing experiences that will help children develop a foundation for scientific and technological concepts.
