Vygotsky's ZPD emphasizes his belief that learning is, fundamentally,
a socially mediated activity. Thinking and problem-solving skills can,
according to Vygotsky, be placed in three categories. some can be performed
independently by the child. Others cannot be performed even with help.
Between these two extremes are skills the child can perform with help from
others. those skills are in the ZPD. If a child uses these cognitive processes
with help of others, such as teachers, parents, and fellow students, they
will develop skills that can be independently practices. As Vygotsky (1987)
puts it, " What the child is able to do in collaboration today he
will be able to do independently tomorrow." Whereas an extreme interpretation
of Piaget can lead to the conclusion that teachers teach best who get out
of the way and let a naturally unfolding development take its course, Vygotsky's
theory requires an involved teacher who is an active participant, and guide,
for student.
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