OAE Professional Knowledge Exam: Complete Practice Test

The correct answer is the Formal Operations stage, which typically begins between the ages of 11 and 15 according to Piaget's theory of cognitive development. In this stage, individuals develop the ability to think abstractly, reason logically, and plan for the future. They can manipulate ideas in their minds and consider hypothetical situations, allowing for advanced problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

During the Formal Operations stage, adolescents become capable of understanding and using concepts that are not tied to concrete experiences. For example, they can engage in deductive reasoning and think about the possibilities of what might happen under different scenarios. This cognitive advancement greatly impacts their ability to engage in scientific reasoning and moral reasoning.

The other stages mentioned in the question occur at different developmental periods. The Concrete Operations stage, which precedes Formal Operations, is characterized by more logical thinking based on concrete objects and experiences. The Preoperational Stage, which occurs from ages 2 to 7, focuses on a child’s ability to use language and engage in symbolic play but lacks the ability for logical operations. The Sensorimotor Stage, the earliest stage from birth to about 2 years, involves learning through sensory experiences and manipulation of objects, emphasizing the development of motor skills and object permanence.