Cognitive Theory: Vygotsky Flashcards

Questions and Answers

State the basis of Vygotsky's theory?

Vygotsky believed it was the influence of others that drives development, stating knowledge was socially constructed. His theory was based around the concept of the zone of proximal development. In the process of thinking, Vygotsky saw the intellect as being composed of elementary and higher functions. Vygotsky also believed that language partly controls cognitive development.

Outline Vygotsky's four proposed processes of thinking concepts: 1. _______ and higher functions, 2. Semiotic mediation, 3. The role of others, 4. The zone of proximal development (ZPD).

Elementary

Outline Vygotsky's elementary and higher functions concept.

Vygotsky proposed that children are born with innate elementary mental functions such as memory. These are transformed into higher mental functions, such as the use of mathematical systems, by the influence of culture. Lower mental functions are biological, while higher mental functions are exclusively human. The role of culture is to transform elementary mental functions into higher mental functions.

What is Vygotsky's semiotic mediation concept?

The process of cognitive development is mediated by semiotics (such as language and other cultural symbols) and must be a social process. Signup and view all the answers

Outline Vygotsky's role of others concept.

Vygotsky proposed that a child learns through problem-solving experiences shared with someone else, usually a parent or teacher, but also more competent peers, described as experts. Initially, the expert assumes most responsibility for guiding the problem-solving activity, but gradually this responsibility transfers to the child. Signup and view all the answers

What is Vygotsky's zone of proximal development concept?

The zone of proximal development (ZPD) is described as the distance between the child's current and potential abilities. A child's ZPD is where cognitive development takes place, initially being a social interaction that later becomes internalized. Signup and view all the answers

Outline Vygotsky's stages of language and thought development.

First stage (0-3): Language and thought develop separately until the age of three. Second stage (3-7): The child uses language and cultural tools for problem-solving, often exhibiting egocentric speech. Third stage (7+): The child can internalize speech and develop problem-solving skills; however, may revert to egocentric speech under stress. Signup and view all the answers

State two supports for Vygotsky's theory: 1. _______ reported that children use inner speech, and 2. It provides a bridge between social and cognitive domains.

Berk Signup and view all the answers

State three criticisms of Vygotsky's theory: 1. Little research compared to Piaget's, 2. May have overplayed social influence, 3. Not fully ______.

developed Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Basis of Vygotsky's Theory

Knowledge is socially constructed; development is driven by interactions with others.
Central concept: Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) represents the gap between current abilities and potential growth.
Intellect consists of both elementary functions (innate abilities) and higher functions (developed through culture).
Language plays a crucial role in cognitive development and partly governs it.

Four Proposed Processes of Thinking

Elementary and higher mental functions differentiate innate abilities from culturally influenced skills.
Semiotic mediation involves the use of signs and symbols (e.g., language) in cognitive processes.
The role of others highlights social learning through collaboration with parents, teachers, or peers.
Zone of Proximal Development outlines the area where learning occurs with guidance, shaping individual potential.

Elementary and Higher Functions Concept

Innate abilities, like memory, emerge as elementary mental functions in children.
Cultural influence transforms these functions into higher mental capabilities (e.g., advanced mathematics).
Lower mental functions are biological and part of natural development.
Higher functions are uniquely human, relying on cultural context for enhancement.

Semiotic Mediation Concept

Cognitive development is facilitated by semiotic tools such as language and cultural symbols, emphasizing the social nature of learning.

Role of Others Concept

Learning occurs through shared problem-solving experiences with more knowledgeable individuals which can include teachers and peers.
Initially, an expert guides the child through tasks, gradually shifting responsibility to the child.

Zone of Proximal Development Concept

ZPD represents the space between what a child can achieve independently and what they can accomplish with assistance.
Cognitive development primarily happens within this region, highlighting the social aspect of learning before becoming internalized.

Vygotsky's Stages of Development

0-3 years: Language and thought develop independently; no connection until age three.
3-7 years: Language becomes a tool for problem-solving, with children engaging in egocentric speech, which helps them process tasks.
7+ years: Children begin to internalize speech for problem-solving but may revert to egocentric speech under stress.

Supports for Vygotsky's Theory

Berk's research indicates children utilize inner speech during challenging tasks, affirming the stages of development.
Vygotsky's approach bridges social and cognitive domains, suggesting greater educational relevance compared to Piaget's theory.

Criticisms of Vygotsky's Theory

Limited empirical support compared to Piaget's extensive research; theory is hard to test experimentally due to its complexity.
Overemphasis on social factors may overlook biological influences, leading to accusations of reductionism.
Incomplete development of the theory; Vygotsky's early death limited the depth and detail of his ideas.

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Description

Explore Vygotsky's cognitive theory through flashcards that highlight key concepts such as the zone of proximal development and the role of social interaction in knowledge construction. Test your understanding of his ideas and their implications for cognitive development.