Training and Generalization of Conservation in Disadvantaged Black Teenagers: A Neo-Piagetian Approach

Abstract

An attempt to train conservation of area, weight, and volume to a group of 16 nonconserving black teenagers (ages 14.5 yr. to 17.8 yr.) is reported. A standard pretest-posttest control group design was employed. The neo-Piagetian model of intellectual development proposed by Pascual-Leone formed the basis for training procedures. Significant training effect was demonstrated for area and weight conservation ( p < .01), however, volume proved to be harder to train. No significant differences were found between experimental and control groups on volume task posttests. The effects of training did not significantly generalize to a conservation of length task. Over-all pre- to posttest gains in conservation were shown ( p < .001) for both experimental and control groups. The very fluid and changeable nature of Ss' logical versus non-logical-perceptual responses suggested a rapid shift between right and left hemisphere brain activity when confronted with the conservation tasks.