Lev Vygotsky's Socio-Cultural Theory

Lev Vygotsky & Socio-Cultural Theory

• Vygotsky spent the last decade of his life researching his theory on cognitive development.
• His theory suggests that social interaction is the primary driver of cognitive development in children.
• Language, as a tool for mediating social interactions, plays a critical role in a child's development.

More Knowledgeable Others (MKOs)

• MKOs possess advanced skills in a specific task compared to the learner.
• They act as guides and mentors for the learner.

Role of Language in Development

• Vygotsky believed that language is fundamental to human cognitive development and higher mental functions.
• Social communication serves as the origin of these functions.

Stages of Speech Development

• Pre-intellectual Social Speech (0 - 3 years)- Language is not yet used to form thoughts.
• Egocentric Speech (3 - 7 years)- Language is spoken aloud but primarily for the speaker's own benefit, independent of communication with others.
• Inner Speech (7+ years)- Language becomes internalized and used for self-regulation and thinking.

Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)

• The ZPD represents the gap between a child's current independent skill level and their potential performance with support.
• It is the area where learning and skill development are most likely to occur.

Scaffolding

• Scaffolding is a form of support provided by teachers and others to help learners progress within their ZPD.
• It involves providing temporary structures and guidance to facilitate the acquisition of new skills.