There are a number of researchers and faculty who specialize in something called “student development theory.” These theories study how college students grow and develop during their time at school. Although you’re not expected to be a “theory expert” as a student staff member, there are nevertheless some simple concepts and take aways than can be helpful from a basic understanding of some of these theories. Remember these are generalizations, and not all students will follow the exact same path.
Perry’s Model of Cognitive Development, developed by William G. Perry Jr., describes how individuals’ thinking evolves during their college years. The model outlines a progression from simplistic, dualistic thinking to more complex and nuanced perspectives. You will see some these changes not only in your residents, but also yourself.
Summary of Perry’s Model of Cognitive Development
Perry posits that students move through successive stages, from Dualism… to Commitment.
Dualism:
- Definition: In this initial stage, individuals view knowledge in binary terms—right or wrong, good or bad. They rely heavily on authority figures for answers and believe that there is a single correct answer to every question.
- Application: Students in this phase might see issues as having clear-cut answers and may struggle with ambiguity or differing opinions.
Multiplicity:
- Definition: Here, individuals begin to recognize that multiple perspectives exist and that not all questions have a single correct answer. They acknowledge that different viewpoints are valid but may still believe that everyone’s opinions are equally correct.
- Application: Students start to appreciate the diversity of perspectives but may not yet develop the skills to critically evaluate them.
Relativism:
- Definition: In this stage, individuals understand that knowledge is contextual and that answers depend on the situation and the criteria used to evaluate them. They begin to assess the validity of different perspectives based on evidence and reasoning.
- Application: Students start to develop critical thinking skills, recognizing that different situations require different approaches and that not all opinions are equally valid.
Commitment:
- Definition: Individuals at this stage make informed commitments to particular beliefs or values based on their understanding of different perspectives and evidence. They accept that knowledge is tentative and open to revision.
- Application: Students integrate their understanding into their own beliefs and values, making decisions and commitments while remaining open to new information and perspectives.
Application for RAs and Student Staff
- Understanding Resident Development: RAs can use Perry’s model to gauge where residents might be in their cognitive development and tailor their interactions accordingly. For instance, residents in the Dualism stage may need more straightforward guidance, while those in the Relativism stage might benefit from more nuanced discussions.
- Facilitating Growth: RAs can help residents progress through the stages by encouraging critical thinking and exposing them to diverse perspectives. Organizing discussions, workshops, or activities that challenge simplistic thinking can support this development.
- Promoting Dialogue: By fostering an environment where residents feel comfortable expressing different viewpoints and engaging in meaningful dialogue, RAs can support the transition from Multiplicity to Relativism.
- Supporting Individual Beliefs: In the Commitment stage, RAs can support residents in exploring and committing to their own values while acknowledging that these commitments may evolve over time.
- Modeling Thinking: RAs themselves can model advanced cognitive development by demonstrating how they navigate complex issues, evaluate different perspectives, and make informed decisions.
By applying Perry’s model, you can better support residents’ cognitive development, helping them transition from simplistic to more sophisticated ways of thinking and ultimately fostering a more thoughtful and reflective community.
