Question: What evidence do you see of specific teacher behaviors that are geared toward Vygotsky's theories of cognitive development? Cite specific examples and make clear connection to Vygotsky's work. Be thorough in your coverage of the theory, addressing multiple concepts to demonstrate your understanding. Be sure to include a reference in your response.
Answer:
Vygotsky Theory Guide
Teacher behaviors that are geared toward Vygotsky's Theory are that of the MKO. They need to be that person that the student can look towards for information. Not only is this important, but it needs to be used in ways that challenges the student. This information needs to be used within the scope of the student's ZPD and can be used with cultural tools such as their domain of experience and also through guided participation as it may be more difficult to always conduct a cognitive apprenticeship with a student.
Being able to guide a student through the thought process and allowing them internalize the information being presented is very important. I feel that many times throughout my education that my teachers have simply stated the answers instead of allowing me to work out the problems for myself. This seemed more prevalent during my early years, but even so this diminishes cognitive development.
Using assessments to determine each child's ZPD is extremely important to determine exactly how each student should be taught. Each student thinks and learns differently and it should be approached that way instead of simply blanketing students under an objective or learning style.
