Planning as the Central Component of Theoretical Thinking

The article analyzes the history and current status of research on planning as a component of theoretical thinking. The main stages of research on the planning function of thinking in the Davydov scientific school are presented and analyzed. The notion of unfeasibility of minimizing the internal plan of action to the action in terms of representation is justified. The viability of conducting research of planning as a central component and as an essential function of theoretical thinking is argued. The results of research on planning as a component of theoretical thinking in its relationship with the analysis and reflection are presented. The experimentally established need for prior analysis of the initial relationship of a task as a basis for planning and reflective analysis of the potential action systems in a theoretical way of solving the task is stressed. The conditions and mechanisms of planning function of pupils' thinking are identified. The prospects for future research on planning as a central component of theoretical thinking are outlined.