Visual Perception (original) (raw)

Advancing Our Understanding of Early Perceptual and Cognitive Development

Human Development, 2002

Recent progress in understanding the perceptual and cognitive capacities of young infants is extremely impressive, especially since many of the new findings and theoretical developments are challenging long held beliefs about the origins of mind. This progress is no mean feat given that researchers are limited to studying a preverbal human with a limited repertoire of coordinated motor responses. It is testimony to the creativity and originality of researchers in this field that so much progress has been made in such a relatively short amount of time. In Emerging Cognitive Abilities in Early Infancy, readers are treated to a sampling of some of the new research and theories that characterize this field. The book, edited by Lacerda, von Hofsten, and Heimann, consists of 11 chapters focused on three general topics concerning object perception, speech perception, and perception of self and others.

Visual Evaluation of the Infant

Optometry and Vision Development, 2006

The developmental visual assessment of infants should include both qualitative and quantitative aspects. The quantitative components are based on static findings that can be compared to normative data and various developmental changes that occur over time. The qualitative aspects are not easily measured. These dynamic aspects should be observed as an ongoing process. This information can provide insights into how the infant is performing the particular task and what strategies they employ. These insights can be valuable when determining the unmet visual needs of the infant and to help in the development of therapy programs. While examining infants we should keep in mind the goal of the evaluation. Beyond doing a health evaluation, we should evaluate what can be done to provide the most appropriate plan to help the infant to develop to their potential. We should also be mindful that the experiences and world of an infant are much different than an adult. Their world begins at near an...