Theories of Development (Vygotsky's Cultural Theory)

Definition

Social Interaction and Language play a major role in shaping cognitive development (life long development)

Speech

Most important in intellectual development

Enables one to think both practically and abstractly (speech converges these abilities)

Two Types of Speech

Non-ego centric and Ego-centric

Egocentric Speech

“Speech on its way inward”

Children talking to themselves while doing tasks — becomes our inner dialogue as we mature

Non-egocentric speech

Speech for the purposes of being social/communication

Relationship between Language and Thought

Two different things but thought is determined by language

(Childs linguistic tools are from their socio-cultural experiences. So poor socio-cultural experiences with language=inhibited ability to think)

Zone of Proximal Development

Gap between what a child can learn independently versus only with an adults help

Scaffolding

Children preform better and solve more difficult problems when guided/supported by competent adult

Potential Developmental Level

Level of competence without guidance from other person