Vygotsky's Sociocultural Theory

Vygotsky's Sociocultural Theory emphasizes the importance of social interaction and cultural context in learning. He believed that our understanding and skills develop through communication and collaboration with others, particularly more knowledgeable individuals like teachers or peers. Central to his theory is the concept of the "Zone of Proximal Development," which identifies the gap between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance. This highlights the role of culture and community in shaping cognitive development, suggesting that learning is a socially mediated process.