Lev Vygotsky (Russian psychologist)

Lev Vygotsky was a Russian psychologist known for his theory that cognitive development is largely shaped by social interactions and culture. He believed that children learn best through guided experiences with more knowledgeable others, such as parents or teachers. Central to his ideas is the "Zone of Proximal Development," which describes tasks children can perform with help, but not yet alone. Vygotsky emphasized that language plays a crucial role in thinking and learning, acting as a tool for internal and external development. His work highlights the importance of social context in helping children reach their full potential.