La compréhension du fonctionnement de la Balance. Une analyse hiérarchique

According to Flavell (1989), psychologists have now to analyze filiations between children’s ideas in more detailed way that the Piagetian one. The rule assessment approach of Siegler (1976, 1978) corresponds to this way, especially the works done about children comprehension of the balance. However, as Larivée et al. (1987) noticed it, the Siegler’s model does not integrate the problem solving strategies of very young children. This research tries to complete the Siegler’s studies. A simple balance with two scales was presented to children between 4 and 6. They were invited either to predict the effect of various manipulations or to explicit the manipulations which can produce some specific effects. The items were inspired by old Piagetian works. Fortyfive children received the first version of the test which was then ajusted (two items were added). The final version was presented to 80 children.