Zone of Proximal Development

Synonyms

Scaffolding; Zo-Ped; ZPD

Definition

The zone of proximal development is the hypothetical space between that which one can accomplish alone and that which one cannot accomplish, even with assistance. Lev Vygotsky has defined the ZPD 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" ([1], p. 86).

Description

Lev Vygotsky, an early twentieth century Russian psychologist, initially theorized and explored the ZPD as a means of understanding the circumstances under which children learn best. According to Vygotsky, ideal learning situations should be aimed at the middle of the zone of proximal development. In other words, learning tasks should not be so easy that children can accomplish them without any assistance, but they should not be so difficult that