Vygotsky's approach to child development

Vygotsky’s Approach

• Vygotsky understands cognitive development as the result of social interactions in which children learn through guided participation, solving problems with the help of mentors.

• Vygotsky believed language drives thinking.

Development of speech:

1. Social speech – talking with others

2. Private speech – talking aloud to guide behaviour

3. Inner speech – silent self-regulation

The ZPD

• The Zone of Proximal Development is the range of tasks a child cannot do alone yet, but can do with help from someone more skilled

Scaffolding

• Scaffolding is the temporary support provided by a more knowledgeable other (adult, teacher, or skilled peer) to help the child succeed within the ZPD.

The MKO

• More Knowledgeable Other is anyone who has greater understanding or skill than the child:

  • Parent

  • Teacher

  • Older sibling

  • Peer