Cognitive Development - Vygotskis Theory Flashcards
What is Vygotsky’s theory of cognitive development?
Vygotsky’s theory emphasizes that cognitive development is inherently a social process where learning occurs through interactions with more knowledgeable others (MKOs) and is mediated by cultural tools such as language.
How does Vygotsky’s theory differ from Piaget’s?
While both theorists agree that reasoning abilities develop sequentially, Vygotsky stresses that development is socially mediated and heavily reliant on language and cultural context, whereas Piaget emphasizes individual discovery and maturation.
What is the Zone of proximal development?
The ZPD is the range between what a child can do independently (current ability) and what they can achieve with guidance (potential ability), representing the optimal “sweet spot” for learning.
What is scaffolding in Vygotsky’s theory?
Scaffolding refers to the temporary support provided by a more knowledgeable other to help a learner complete tasks within their ZPD. This support is gradually removed as the learner gains competence.
What role does language play in Vygotsky’s theory?
Language is a primary cultural tool in Vygotsky’s theory. It begins as external speech for communication, evolves into egocentric speech for self-guidance, and is eventually internalized as inner speech that underpins internal thought and reasoning
What does internalisation mean in this context?
Internalization is the process by which external, social interactions and language are transformed into internal cognitive functions, forming the basis for higher mental processes.
What are Vygotsky’s stages of concept formation?
Vygotsky’s stages of concept formation include: the Vague-Syncretic Stage (a trial-and-error approach), the Complex Stage (using systematic strategies without yet isolating key attributes), the Potential Concept Stage (identifying individual attributes), and the Mature Concept Stage (integrating multiple attributes into an abstract concept).
What does the “Child as a Scientist” vs “Child as an Apprentice” analogy illustrate?
This analogy highlights that while children actively construct knowledge like scientists through exploration and discovery, they also learn effectively through guided practice and social interaction like apprentices.
What are some limitations of Vygotsky’s theory as highlighted in the slides?
Limitations include a vague explanation of the process of internalization, an underemphasis on biological factors in cognitive development, and challenges in accounting for universal patterns of intellectual growth across different cultures.
How does Vygotsky’s theory apply to educational practice?
It informs teaching strategies by advocating for guided instruction within a student’s ZPD, the use of scaffolding to support learning, and the gradual transfer of responsibility from teacher to learner.
What empiracle studies support Vygotsky’s key concepts?
Studies such as Roazzi & Bryant (1998) (improved estimation with MKO support), Conner & Cross (2003) (adaptive maternal assistance), and Van Keer & Verhaeghe (2005) (enhanced learning via peer tutoring) provide empirical backing for Vygotsky’s concepts.
What evidence challenges the universality of Vygotsky’s theory?
Research by Liu & Matthews (2005) indicates that high academic performance can occur in large classrooms with minimal individual scaffolding, suggesting that cognitive development may also thrive under less structured conditions.
How are higher cognitive functions developed according to Vygotsky?
Higher cognitive functions, such as logical reasoning and self-regulation, are built upon basic mental functions through guided social interactions and the gradual internalization of language and external support.
What is the role of cultural tools in cognitive development?
Cultural tools—including language, writing, art, number systems, and social practices—serve as symbolic systems that are passed down through generations and are internalized through social interaction, thereby shaping cognitive development.
How does reasoning development occur in Vygotsky’s view?
Reasoning development advances beyond mere factual knowledge by relying on social collaboration and guided learning, where higher mental functions are acquired through interactions with more knowledgeable others.
