Rheta Devries
About the Author
Rheta Devries is a pioneering educator and developmental psychologist whose work has profoundly influenced early childhood education through a constructivist lens. Drawing from the theories of Jean Piaget, she emphasizes active learning, where children construct knowledge through hands-on exploration and social interaction rather than rote memorization. With decades of experience in classroom settings and research, Devries has advocated for environments that foster moral development, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry in young learners. Her innovative approaches encourage teachers to facilitate discovery, promoting curiosity and ethical reasoning from an early age. As a professor emerita at the University of Northern Iowa, she continues to inspire educators worldwide to create dynamic, child-centered classrooms that nurture both intellect and character.
