Research On Zone Of Proximal Development

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Theoretical Framework
The theoretical framework that guided this research is based on Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), Knowledge Space Theory (KST), Bloom’s Taxonomy and Cognitive tutors(CT.) This section will discuss this model and the purpose for selecting it for this study.

Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)
The zone of proximal development is a notion applicable to the field of education and artificial intelligence (AI). Jonassen (2003) contended that cognitive tools and modeling software could promote student learning of problem solving skills. ZPD incorporated into adaptive AI systems can assist (scaffolding) and remove assistance as increased skill proficiencies patterns are detected (scaffold fading). Just as traditional tools extend human muscle or sensory functions, cognitive tools extend cognitive, or symbolic, function (Salomon, 1988). How information from the external world is transformed and internalized, was the question examined by the Russian psychologist, Vygotsky, (1978). The notion of internalizations stem from the important principle of Vygotsky’s work, ZPD. Vygotsky believed education's role was to give children modeled proficiencies, thereby encouraging and advancing their individual learning. ZPD uses a scaffolding process of guiding the learner from current skill proficiencies to higher skill proficiencies. Vygotsky indicates that the more competent person supports the learner in their endeavor to reach the new level of development.

Taken from: http://kristiesteachingphilosophy.wordpress.com/2014

Knowledge Space Theory (KTS)
KST is the framework underlying ALEKS‘s design. KST explains how to reveal a learner‘s knowledge structures and achievement in a particular subject domain, in this case ...

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...gs with an outline of the topic, then proceeds to a work assignment which reinforces the lesson and enhances students' learning. Lectures also typically include an element of discussion, wherein students can ask teachers questions directly, for the benefit of the whole class.

Differentiated instruction – is a way to reach students with different learning styles, different abilities to absorb information and different ways of expressing what they have learned. Differentiation means tailoring instruction to meet individual learners needs.

Abbreviations

AI Artificial Intelligence
AIR American Institutes for Research
ALEKS Assessment of LEarning in Knowledge Space
CAI Computer Assisted Instruction
CT Cognitive Tutor
KST Knowledge Space Theory
PISA Program for International Student Assessment
TDI Teacher Directed Instruction
ZPD Zone of Proximal Development

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