7.3 Vygotsky: Sociocultural Theory & ZPD

Vygotsky: Sociocultural Theory & ZPD

Main principle of Vygotsky’s model?

Cognitive development results from social interaction & cultural tools.

Role of language in Vygotsky?

Primary cultural tool for developing higher psychological functions.

What are higher mental functions?

Cognitive abilities shaped by cultural & social experiences.

hat is the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)?

Difference between what a child can do alone & with guidance.

Why is ZPD crucial for language?

Adults provide scaffolding that helps internalisation of linguistic knowledge.

What is scaffolding?

Assistance that allows the child to perform a task beyond independent ability.

Inter-psychological regulation?

External social guidance.

Intra-psychological regulation?

Internal self-regulation after internalisation.

Private speech (Vygotsky)?

Self-directed speech used to guide thinking; precursor to inner speech.

Difference with Piaget?

Vygotsky: private speech = tool for thinking
Piaget: egocentric speech = immature, non-communicative

Role of culture?

Determines the tools & experiences that shape cognitive development.

Can Genie’s case support Vygotsky?

Yes — lack of social interaction → limited language internalisation.