Question

Describe Lev Vygotsky’s Theory of Cognitive Development. Include a description of the zone of proximal development and scaffolding.

Answer 1

Lev Vygotsky believed that a child's social environment plays a big role in the cognitive development of children. The environment influences the child, and the interaction of children with their parents and other adults helps them learn new skills. Children also acquire language and other skills through their interaction with adults and their socio-cultural enviornment.

The Zone of Proximal Development is the "zone" in which the child can learn a new task or skill but hasn't learned it yet. The parents or adults can help this child, who is in the zone to learn a new skill. This is applied in various problem solving, communication and other social activities.

Scaffolding is similar to Zone of Proximal Development, in that, it the assistance which is required by the child to perform a task successfully. Scaffolding involves trying various methods to support the child and find the right method to suit their needs.