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Russian psychologist Studied in the 1920’s and 1930’s Conclusion: Culture was a primary determinant in learning Language is the primary method of conveying knowledge Learning can only take place in social situations Students cannot learn in a vacuum Children need assistance, guidance, and encouragement from adults to learn

Similar to Piaget: Emphasis on language Importance of play in learning and passing on culture Differs from Piaget: Did not collapse cognitive development by age or stages Learning differences are defined by ZPD (zone of proximal development)

Culture is the primary determinant in learning Activity, language, culture, society, and social interaction are important in cognitive development

Zone of Proximal Development The difference between what the child can do on his OWN and what the child can do WITH HELP

Culture provides the content knowledge (what to think) Culture defines the means for thinking (how to think) Children learn through experiences shared with others

Language is a primary factor in this interaction between the child and others (adults) Children cannot learn by themselves; they need the interaction between the child and the adult – the transmission of culture and cultural values

Interaction between adults and children is vital in the learning process Adults provide support and assist the child in becoming an independent learner through scaffolding : Adjusting support as needed for the child to become independent Children should be assessed at just above their level of ZPD

Play, especially in the use of symbolic forms, contributes significantly to the child's intellectual development Play is essential to social, personal, and professional activities

“Internalized talking” (talking to oneself) is important because it provides self-guidance

Awareness of self, language, concepts, place in the world: These are what make man human and social, linking history and culture

Tests measure students’ current level of ability: What they can do independently What students can do with the help of others might be a truer measurement of their abilities