http://www.cles.mlc.edu.tw/~cerntcu/099-curriculum/Edu_Psy/EP_03_New.pdf
Current conceptions of development and learning in
children can be reduced to three major theoretical positions. First believes
that process of child developments is independent of learning. Learning is
purely an external process. Second position believes that learning is
development. Finally the last position believes that development is based on
two inherently different but related processes, each of which influences the
other.
The zone of proximal development has
been defined as “the distance between the actual developmental level as
determined by independent problem solving and the level of potential
development as determined through problem solving under adult guidance, or in
collaboration with more capable peers” (Vygotsky, p86). Vygotsky views interaction with peers as an effective way of developing
skills and strategies. He suggests that teachers use cooperative learning
exercises where less competent children develop with help from more skillful
peers - within the zone of proximal development. Vygotsky believed that when a
student is at the ZPD for a particular task, providing the appropriate
assistance will give the student enough of a "boost" to achieve the
task. “From this point of view, learning is not development; however, properly
organized learning results in mental development and sets in motion a variety
of developmental process that would be impossible apart from learning”
(Vygotsky, p90).
During my student teaching at the Saturday Art Program
of Pratt, my twelve-year-old students were not capable of abstract ideas and
conceptual thinking. Children at this age have developed their hand dexterity. They are
capable to control their hands; therefore psychotically they become more
product and goal oriented. Children at this age are not ready to think accept
abstract paintings or ideas, however according to Vygotsky there is a zone of proximal development. If the teacher utilizes zone of proximal
development or scaffolding that will help the children to boost their learning.
During my student teaching, I also adopted the concept of zone of
proximal development in my curriculum so the children will be able to
be elaborated to a higher premature level.
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