The Vygotskian concept of the zone of proximal development refers to which of the following?

• A. The stage at which a child can solve problems completely on their own without any assistance.
• B. The set of behaviors that are considered appropriate for a child's current age.
• C. The period during which a child is most sensitive to environmental influences for language development.
• D. The range of tasks that a child can perform with the help and guidance of others but cannot yet perform independently.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) is a concept introduced by Lev Vygotsky, a developmental psychologist who emphasized the social context of learning.
2. Recognize that the ZPD refers to the difference between what a learner can do without help and what they can achieve with guidance and encouragement from a skilled partner.
3. Identify that tasks within the ZPD are those that a child cannot yet perform independently but can accomplish with assistance, highlighting the potential for cognitive development.
4. Distinguish the ZPD from other developmental stages or concepts, such as tasks a child can do alone (independent performance) or age-appropriate behaviors, which are not the focus of this concept.
5. Conclude that the correct understanding of the ZPD is the range of tasks a child can perform with help but not yet independently, emphasizing the importance of social interaction in learning.