Vygotsky's Theory of Social Development

Key Concepts

Community and Language in Learning
- Central to the learning process
- Contrasts with Jean Piaget's stage-based cognitive development
Elementary Mental Functions
- Attention
- Sensation
- Perception
- Memory
- These functions are the foundation for higher mental functions
Role of Social and Cultural Environment
- Development through social interactions
- Utilization of elementary skills for higher cognitive functions

Defined Stages
- What we can do on our own
- What we can do with help (ZPD)
  - Help from adults, friends, technology, "more knowledgeable other"
- What's beyond our reach
Illustration with Twins Example
- Boy and Girl
  - Similar initial abilities (e.g., crawling)
  - Boy receives support and encouragement, girl does not
  - Boy progresses faster due to support
  - Girl eventually learns but at a slower pace
- Outcome
  - Boy becomes more skilled due to the support in ZPD
  - Highlights the importance of a capable mentor

Learning Beyond Natural Maturity
- Skills learned can surpass natural developmental stages
- Emphasis on the importance of mentorship and guidance

Development of Inner Speech
- Transition from external speech to internalized thought
- Younger children think out loud until they develop inner speech
- Inner speech and spoken language become independent after completion of this process

Lev Vygotsky
- Died at age 37 in 1934 from tuberculosis
- Became a highly influential 20th-century psychologist
- Left advice for educators: Practice in talking with others helps in thinking independently