Which one of the following statements most accurately describes Vygotsky's theory of cognitive development?
A) Children's cognitive growth should be judged on the basis of their actual developmental level, not on the basis of their level of potential development.
B) Cognitive development progresses through four distinct stages; each stage is characterized by increasingly more complex thought and language.
C) Children progress, in part, by working on difficult tasks with the assistance of more competent individuals.
D) Language and thought, although closely intertwined in the first few years of life, become increasingly distinct entities.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Vygotsky's theory emphasizes the importance of social interactions and cultural influences on cognitive development. He believed that children progress by working on difficult tasks with the assistance of more competent individuals, which he called the "zone of proximal development." Children's actual developmental level (what they can do independently) is important, but so is their level of potential development (what they can do with assistance). While Vygotsky did emphasize the role of language in cognitive development, he did not propose distinct stages of development like Piaget did (option B). Option D is also incorrect as Vygotsky emphasized the close relationship between language and thought throughout the lifespan.

Which One of the Following Statements Most Accurately Describes Vygotsky's