Vygotsky's Theory Of Cognitive Development Stages With Weaknesses

Vygotsky’s Theory of Cognitive Development

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.

Vygotsky’s cognitive development focuses on child-centered learning in the classroom. This theory believes that cognitive functions are facilitated by social interactions due to which learners need to engage in the same. Vygotsky’s cognitive development theory enables learners to gain skills such as

Problem solving
Inquiry
Self determination
Critical thinking
Learning by discovery and exploration.

Weaknesses of Vygotsky’s Theory

The weaknesses of Vygotsky’s theory of cognitive development are as follows:

Lack of Empirical Evidence

Many researchers state that the theory lacks empirical evidence.

Offers Limited Solutions

The theory is learner-centered due to which individuals with complex problems may not receive proper guidance.

Lack of Conscious Awareness

The theory fails to take conscious awareness into account and acknowledge its importance.

Not a Scientific Approach

Due to the lack of objective methods used in the approach, it is considered unscientific.

Not Realistic

The theory is regarded to focus too much on positivity due to which it may not be highly realistic.

Ignores biological factors

Biological factors are not taken into account in this theory of learning.

Ignores life span changes

The changes that occur throughout one’s life span are not taken into account in this theory.

Conclusion

Vygotsky’s theory believes that cognitive functions are facilitated by social interactions due to which learners need to engage in the same.