Vygotsky, Lev (Lev Vygotsky)

Lev Vygotsky was a Russian psychologist known for his theory of cognitive development, emphasizing the importance of social interaction and culture in learning. He proposed that children learn best through guided participation with more knowledgeable others, which helps them develop higher mental functions. A key idea is the "Zone of Proximal Development" (ZPD), representing tasks a child can perform with help but not alone. Vygotsky believed that social and cultural tools—like language—play a crucial role in shaping the mind, making learning a collaborative and contextually embedded process.