Lesson 3 - Grand Round Assignment 3

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Presentation of Theoretical Application

Reading: Chapter None
  
 

  1. Lecture Information: Applying Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development

    For this week's lesson on Socio-cultural cognitive development, we will concentrate on Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development(ZPD).  Vygotsky's model for teaching and learning is a very good example.  It is basically a variation on Piaget's model for learning except that the ZPD capitalizes on the teaching aspect more effectively.  For Vygotsky, learning takes place as a result of a social interaction with a more knowledgeable peer or superior, which in a sense is what teaching really is.  Also please keep in mind the Special Education topics that we cover in each lesson as well.  If your profile has some similar issues, then use that information as well.

    For your assignment, I would like you to think in terms of the layers of expertise that the ZPD.  In each of the layers I would like you to discuss the items of knowledge/skills/abilities that pertain to the subject area that you are using to apply the theory in General.  For example, if you are using quadratic equations to illustrate the middle layer, i.e., the ZPD, then you could use basic algebraic problem solving as their inner layer, items that require no social interaction anymore.  So to summarize:

    1. Inner Layer- Discuss items that the student has complete control over.

      1. They require no instruction from you other than a direction to do it.

      2. It is a "fet accompli."  They come to you with these items or you have already taught it to them.

    2. Middle Layer-Discuss items that the student might acquire with your help as a teacher.

      1. They need you to show them how to do it.

      2. They need you to supervise,  guide, and correct missteps.

    3. Outer Layer-Discuss items that the student can not acquire before frustration sets in.

      1. They need more help than you can give them

      2. Vygotsky might say that the student doesn't have the cultural resources to support them.

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