Vygotsky's socio cultural theory

Vygotsky’s socio cultural theory

-Vygotsky’s theory is that social interaction place a very important in cognitive development.

4 Basic Principles

1.       Children construct their knowledge.

2.       Development cannot be separated from its social.

3.       Learning is mediated.

4.       Language plays a central role in mental development.

Main Principles

1.       The more knowledgeable other-refers to anyone who has better understanding or higher ability level than the learner.

2.       Zone proximal Development-difference between what child can accomplish alone and she/he can accomplish without the guidance of another.

Features of ZPD

1.       Scafolding-Appropriate assistance given by the teacher to assist the learner accomplish a task.

2.       Reciprocal Teaching-A highly successful teaching method, it provides an environmental of open dialogue between student and teacher without which goes beyond a simple a question and answer session.

Types of Mental function

1.       Lower mental function- are those with which we are born, are the natural function and are genetically determined.

2.       Higher Mental Function- are acquired and developed through social interaction.

REFLECTION:

Vygotsky's theory in socio cultural is based on children social interaction with others and in the environment. Children will learn through their experiences in social environments that are rich in interaction, and they used their prior experience to build the learning they already know.