Back to: Learning and Teaching – Unit 2
Introduction
According to Vygotsky’s cognitive development theory, cognitive abilities are gained through social guidance and construction. The development and formation of abilities like memory, learning, problem solving, and attention take place through the role of culture as a mediator. His approach to child development can be considered as a social constructivism form. He believes that social interactions produce cognitive functions.
Educational Implications
The educational implications of Vygotsky’s cognitive development theory are as follows:
Learning is Child-Centered
Vygotsky’s cognitive development focuses on child centered learning in the classroom.
Learners are active
In the classroom application of Vygotsky’s cognitive theory, learners play an active role instead of a passive one.
Social interactions are important
Vygotsky’s theory believes that cognitive functions are facilitated by social interactions due to which learners need to engage in the same.
Learning by discovery
Vygotsky’s cognitive development theory also focuses on learning by discovery and exploration.
Focuses on knowledge improvement
Vygotsky’s cognitive development theory enables learners to gain skills such as problem solving, inquiry, self determination, and critical thinking.
Challenging tasks are included
Vygotsky’s theory also believes in the provision of challenging groups tasks that are cooperative and collaborative.
Fosters The Development of Learners
Teachers must focus on all the round development of learners. Instructional methods should be such that it is comprehensible to learners and fosters their growth and development.
Conclusion
Vygotsky’s theory puts emphasis on social interactions for new knowledge and behavior to be learned.