Vygotsky’s

Sociocultural
Theory of
Development
This theory stated that
students learn through social
interactions and their culture.
 Two Main Principles
1. The More Knowledgeable Others (MKO)

2. The Zone of Proximal Development

(ZPD)
The More Knowledgeable Others (MKO)

1.Refers to anyone who has better understanding or higher

ability level than the learner.

2.Normally thought of as being a teacher, trainer, or older,

adult but MKO could also peers, a younger person, even
computers.
 Zone of Proximal Development

Difference between child can accomplish

alone and she/he can accomplish with the
guidance of another.
 • The teacher might organize the class into groups
where less skilled children are paired with students
who have a higher skill level.

• Hints, prompts, and direct instruction can be used to

help kids improve their ability level.

• Educators might also utilize the concept of

scaffolding, where the teacher provides prompts to
move the child progressively forward towards a goal.
 Scaffolding
• The support or assistance that lets the child
accomplish a task he cannot accomplish
independently.

• Involves judicious assistance given by the adult or

peer.
 Examples of Scaffolding

• Adult unzips the zipper an inch or two and

then holds the lunch bag so that the child can
continue to unzip the lunch bag.

• Loosening the food container lid just a bit and

letting the child open and lid himself.
 “What a child can do in
cooperation today,
tomorrow she/he will be
able to do alone

-Lev Vygotsky