Year 1 -
Undergrad
PS51005B: The
Psychology of the Person
Vygotsky’s Account of Development
Session Aims
Natural vs Cultural lines of development
Psychological tools (e.g. speech, writing, memory aids)
Self-directed speech and problem solving
Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)
Scaffolding (Bruner’s contribution)
Abstract and theoretical reasoning
Memory development and metamemory
Play as a psychological tool
Comparison between Vygotsky and Piaget’s theories
Psychological Tools
Vygotsky viewed tools like language, writing, and numbering systems as critical for development. Speech, in
particular, helps children participate in social life, solve problems, and plan ahead. Other tools include memory
aids, abstract symbols (e.g. algebra), and imaginative play.
Self-Directed Speech
Children use self-talk (e.g., 'Where’s the pencil?') from around age 3–4. Vygotsky saw this as an important
problem-solving strategy. By ages 5–7, such speech increases when tasks are difficult. Contrasts with Piaget’s
view of it as egocentric.
Zone of Proximal Development & Scaffolding
Undergrad
PS51005B: The
Psychology of the Person
Vygotsky’s Account of Development
Session Aims
Natural vs Cultural lines of development
Psychological tools (e.g. speech, writing, memory aids)
Self-directed speech and problem solving
Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)
Scaffolding (Bruner’s contribution)
Abstract and theoretical reasoning
Memory development and metamemory
Play as a psychological tool
Comparison between Vygotsky and Piaget’s theories
Psychological Tools
Vygotsky viewed tools like language, writing, and numbering systems as critical for development. Speech, in
particular, helps children participate in social life, solve problems, and plan ahead. Other tools include memory
aids, abstract symbols (e.g. algebra), and imaginative play.
Self-Directed Speech
Children use self-talk (e.g., 'Where’s the pencil?') from around age 3–4. Vygotsky saw this as an important
problem-solving strategy. By ages 5–7, such speech increases when tasks are difficult. Contrasts with Piaget’s
view of it as egocentric.
Zone of Proximal Development & Scaffolding
