Final answer:
It is true that teachers should have an understanding of child growth and development to provide tailored and effective education. Knowledge of developmental psychology and inclusivity of cultural values are crucial components of a comprehensive education.
Step-by-step explanation:
True or False: teachers should have an understanding of child growth and development. This statement is True. Teachers are trained education experts much like doctors are trained medical experts. Having an understanding of child growth and development is crucial for educators as it helps them to tailor their teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of their students. Early developmental psychologists like Jean Piaget have shown us that children have specific developmental stages, such as the development of object permanence and theory-of-mind (TOM). It is necessary for teachers to recognize and accommodate these developmental stages in their teaching.
Moreover, acknowledging and understanding student differences, including cultural and racial differences, allows teachers to create an inclusive environment that respects and capitalizes on the diversity within the classroom. Community involvement, like that of grandmothers in certain cultures, can enrich the learning process and provide a broad perspective on cultural values and behaviors that are essential for the holistic development of children.