Vygotsky's theory has two major applications in teaching; cooperative learning and scaffolding. Cooperative learning is now days one of the most popular terms in the american educational setting.The main goal of cooperative learning is to arrange students in groups with different abilities. Slavin (2009) stated that "tutoring by a more competent peer can be effective in promoting growth withing the zone of proximal (ZPD) development as can interactions around complex tasks. The reasoning behind this idea is that because peers operate within the same ZPD they often provide models for each other. The ZPD refers to the level of development immediately above a person’s present level. On the other hand scaffolding is also a very applicable term when it comes to teaching. Slavin (2009), defned sccafolding as a support for learning and poblem solving; might include clues, reminders, encourgament, breaking the problem down into steps, providing an example, or anything else that allows the student to grow in independence as a learner. Other terms currently used in our educational system could also be considered derivates of this theory, like the gradual release model. This models suggests that the teacher should start by leading the instruction and then gradually turn over the responsability of the learning process to the students. This model is intended to allow students to develop critical thinking to their maximum potential.
As a teacher I have had the opportunity to see Vygotsky's theory of cognitive development come to live. When children work together they guide each other through the thinking process, especially when they think aloud. Being in the classroom everyday I have seen students grow and develop critical thinking just by having the opportunity of sharing their thaughts and working with more knowledgeable peers.Cooperative learning provides an ideal learning environment since we are social creatures. However, at times teachers are limited by the requirements of the educational system and are unable to work with students in the "ideal setting" (Due to Curriculum Requirements). Karpov & Haywood (1998) stated that for a curriculum to be developmentally appropriate, the teacher should plan activities that the student is capable to complete, however also incorporate activities that the student can learn with the help of others. Ideally, instruction should be planned to provide practice within the students ZPD.
As a parent/teacher/community member what are your thoughts on how Vygotsky's theory has been incorporated to the educational system?
While I have never been a teacher within the educational system, I have observed ways in which the educational system has attempted to integrate Vygotsky's theory. I think that one of the most evident ways in which this has occurred has been as you mentioned- cooperative learning. I have seen my children (and even myself!) greatly benefit from these opportunities. As you discussed, it's an opportunity to encourage critical thinking and engage with other perspectives.
ReplyDelete-Tahani
As a teacher I have observed that cooperative learning is one of the most important learning methods for children because it gives an opportunity for social development. Vygotsky believed that cognitive development is rooted in social interaction during childhood.
ReplyDeleteAkhtari
Language has a particular role in learning and development by acquiring a language, a child is provided the means to think in new ways and gains a new cognitive tool for making sense of the world. As a teacher the use of the scaffolding and cooperative learning helps us to direct students learning processes.
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ReplyDeleteOver my teaching career, I have often heard these terms thrown around and changed to fit the current trends needs. I feel that both are critical components to learning for young children if put into proper use. Both scaffolding and cooperative learning skills have to be taught to children. Often I have seen them just presented to children without a structure to guide them.
ReplyDelete-Joanne