How does society influence individual development?
This theory has become increasingly prominent since the 1990sand can be applied in education, socialization, and play.
According to Vygotsky, human development relies on social interaction and, therefore, can differ among cultures.
Illustration by Brianna Gilmartin, Verywell
Sociocultural theory stresses the role that social interaction plays inpsychological development.
According to Vygotsky, learning is based on interacting with other people.
Once this has occurred, the information is then integrated on the individual level.
Vygotsky contended that children are born with basic biological constraints on their minds.
Each culture, however, provides “tools of intellectual adaptation.”
For example, one culture might emphasizememory strategiessuch as note-taking.
Another might use tools like reminders or rote memorization (a technique that uses repetition).
These nuances influence how a child learns, providing the “tools” that are appropriate to their culture.
How does this idea translate into real-world learning?
Fortunately, experts and researchers suggest that learning under the guidance of more knowledgeable others can be beneficial.
For example, research suggests that learning in the zone of proximal development can help increase skills and knowledge.
Since they are both theories of learning, Vygotsky’s theory is often compared to Piaget’s.
Here’s how this theory can be implemented in the real world in ways that can benefit learners.
Educators can then offer instruction that stretches the limits of each child’s capabilities.
At first, the student may need assistance from an adult or a more knowledgeable peer.
Eventually, their zone of proximal development will expand.
Teachers and parents can use this concept by providing children with plenty of opportunities forplay experiences.
The sociocultural perspective reinforces the role that people in mentor-like positions play in shaping who we become.
This includes not just parents and teachers but also community leaders and others we model ourselves after.
Sociocultural theory explains learning as a social practice while cognitive theory considers learning on a more individual level.
With cognitive theory, learning is dependent on a person’s mental processes.
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