Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development as a Theoretical Foundation for Cooperative Learning

Authors

  • Peter Doolittle Author

Abstract

The work of Lev Vygotsky (1896-1934) provides a sound theoretical foundation for investigating the rationale underlying various instructional strategies. This article integrates Vygotsky's construct of the zone of proximal development with the instructional strategy of cooperative learning. The zone of proximal development provides a conceptual basis for explaining the five basic tenets of cooperative learning: positive interdependence, face-to-face interaction, individual accountability, small-group and interpersonal skills, and group self-evaluation. Following a discussion of the relevance of Vygotsky's ideas to cooperative learning, the article presents a series of guidelines or suggestions for using cooperative learning.

Published

2024-03-22