video russian psychologist studied in the 1920’s and 1930’s conclusion: culture was a primary...

Social Cognitive Development

Lev Vygotsky

Overview

Video

Lev Vygotsky

Russian psychologist Studied in the 1920’s and 1930’sConclusion:

Culture was a primary determinant in learning Language is the primary method of conveying knowledgeLearning can only take place in social situationsStudents cannot learn in a vacuumChildren need assistance, guidance, and encouragement from adults to learn

Vygotsky, Cont’d.

Similar to Piaget:Emphasis on languageImportance of play in learning and passing on culture

Differs from Piaget:Did not collapse cognitive development by age or stagesLearning differences are defined by ZPD (zone of proximal development)

Social Cognitive Theory

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

ZPD

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

Impact of Culture

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

Impact of Culture, Cont’d.

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

Implications for Teaching

Interaction between adults and children is vital in the learning processAdults 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

Importance of Play

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

Self Talk

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

Conscious Awareness

Awareness of self, language, concepts, place in the world:

These are what make man human and social, linking history and culture

Testing

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