Vygotsky's Theory

Question 1

What is a constructivist approach?

Answer 1

Constructivist approach is when children develop their own ideas based on experiences and interactions.

Question 2

What is a social-constructivist approach?

Answer 2

Social-constructivist approach is when children’s logic and reasoning is developed by experience, interactions and questions from adults or older children.

Question 3

What approach did Vygotsky take?

Answer 3

Vygotsky takes a social-constructivist approach.

Question 4

What is the zone of actual development (ZAD)?

Answer 4

The zone of actual development is what the learner can do by themselves (unaided).

Question 5

What is the zone of proximal development (ZPD)?

Answer 5

The zone of proximal development is what the learner can do with guidance.

Question 6

What should practitioners do to help their ZPD?

Answer 6

1. Observe a child carefully to find their ZAD.
2. Work out what the child’s ZPD is.
3. Plan carefully how to develop/help the child through their ZPD.

Question 7

How can a practitioner help a child through their ZPD?

Answer 7

Scaffolding= breakdown a task into smaller steps and then gradually remove the support.

More Knowledgeable Other (MKO)= an adult or older child that can help the child.

Asking Questions (during a task)= “Why are you doing this?”