Zone of Development

The Zone of Development, often called the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), is a concept from educational psychology that describes the gap between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance or support from a more knowledgeable person. It highlights the potential for growth when appropriate help is provided. Think of it as the "sweet spot" where learning is most effective—challenging enough to encourage development but manageable with some assistance. This idea emphasizes the importance of tailored support to help learners reach their full potential.