Lev Vygotsky

His social development theory is one of the foundations of constructivism and asserts three

main themes;

Social interaction plays a fundamental role inthe process of cognitive development

More Knowledgeable Other (MKO)

Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)

Social Interaction

In his social development theory Vygotsky believes what we learn, has a direct link on how we learn.

And that this social interaction is vital to the learning experience. We would call it co-operative learning.

More Knowledgeable Other

The MKO refers to anyone who has a better understanding or a higher ability level than the learner, with respect to a particular task, process, or concept.

The MKO is normally thought of as being the teacher or educator, but the MKO could also be the learners

peers or even ICT.

Zone of Proximal Development

Involves the creation of the learning environment to enable activities to allow for the development of the

learners present knowledge or ability to a higher level.

Scaffolding is the assistance during the process of learning development which aids the learner. The

‘scaffold’ is lowered as the learners level increases.

What student already knows

ZPD

Student Potential

Lecture

Reading

Audio Visual

Demonstration

Class Discussion

Practice by doing

Teach others/immediate use of learning

5%

10%

20%

30%

50%

75%

90%

Average Retention

Rate

Source: National Training Laboratories Bethel Maine

But is it effective?