WORKSHOP AGENDA

1. Caveat and Premise2. Review Vygotsky’s Theoretical Framework3. The problems with typical ZPD examples4. ZPD Activity5. Discussion6. Final Thoughts

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

• Vygotsky’s framework is socio-linguistic• Essentially cooperative and collaborative• The elementary mental functions:

• Attention• Sensation• Perception• Memory

• Working with a more knowledgeable other (MKO) results in higher mental functions, or…

Vygotsky, L. S. Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes. Harvard University Press, 1978.

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

• ...learning

Vygotsky, L. S. Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes. Harvard University Press, 1978.

PROBLEM(FROM A HIGHER ED PERSPECTIVE)

• Unlike the puzzle or bicycle examples…• Students we’re working with often have

extensive prior knowledge, and• That knowledge is sometimes incorrect or

incomplete• In order to determine an individual

student’s ZPD, …

HYPOTHESIS

• We use calibration questions to determine the student’s current understanding

ACTIVITY

• See handout• Reflection/discussion