Theories of education are important for teachers to understand because they will guide a teachers educational beliefs, practices, and decisions. Models provide a framework for the systems and processes within early childhood education and inform education standards, both at the state and national levels.

For this assignment, utilize resources found in the GCU Library and the course textbook to research theories that have influenced early childhood education. Select four theories from the list below:

• Bronfenbrenners ecological systems theory
• Piaget’s cognitive development theory
• Vygotsky’s sociocultural constructivism theory
• Bowlby’s attachment theory
• Bandura’s social learning theory
• Erikson’s psychosocial theory
• Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory

For each theory, write 150-200 words about the following:

• Summary of each theory, including the timeframe in which the theory was developed.
• How the theory has influenced early childhood education.
• How each theory can be applied to make developmentally appropriate decisions in curriculum and instruction.

Support your work with 2-3 scholarly references.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.