CAPS Terms for Teachers: zone of proximal development

the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance and support from a more knowledgeable person: The zone of proximal development (ZPD) is a concept developed by psychologist Lev Vygotsky. It refers to the difference or gap between a learner’s current level of independent functioning or problem-solving abilities and their potential or optimal level of performance with guidance and support from a more knowledgeable person, such as a teacher or peer. The ZPD highlights the importance of scaffolding and providing appropriate levels of challenge and support to facilitate learning and cognitive development.