pedology

n. an early 20th-century educational movement in Europe whose stated purpose was the scientific study of the physical and mental development of children. Interest in pedology manifested itself especially within the emerging Soviet psychology of the 1920s, and Lev Vygotsky was among its supporters. Because of its emphasis on ability testing and examination of individual differences, however, it was banned by the Soviets as a “false science” in 1936.

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Psychology term of the day

February 16th 2025

reasonable accommodations

adjustments made within an employment or educational setting that allow an individual with a physical, cognitive, or psychiatric disability to perform essential functions. These adjustments might include installing ramps in an office cafeteria for wheelchair accessibility, altering the format of a test for a person with learning disabilities, or providing a sign language interpreter for a person with hearing loss. Provisions for reasonable accommodations must be made by employers and educators according to the 1990 Americans With Disabilities Act and the 1973 Rehabilitation Act. See undue hardship.