higher mental functions - sophisticated cognitive abilities that
include internal, language-based mental tools
Zone of proximal development (ZPD) - Vygotsky's term for an area that is bounded by the level of
problem-solving that a child can perform on his/ her own and the level of problem-solving that a child is
capable of given the assistance of a competent instructor
scaffolding - temporary support while the task is being completed
cultural tools - ways of functioning in response to the demands of the culture in which a child is raised
social-stage - the stage of development between birth and 3 years when (according to Vygotsky)
children uses language to express simple thought and feelings
egocentric stage - the stage of development in which (according with Vygotsky) children 3-7 years use
external speech to control their actions
external speech - the speech produced by a child talking aloud to him/ herself which is
used by the child to direct his/ her behaviors
inner private speech - the language that is used by a child to talk silently to him/ herself which
shows the child can shape and direct thinking
outcome-based education (OBE) - a system of education based on the principle that all learners can be
successful, that success at one level promotes success at the next level & that schools and teachers control
the conditions for learners' success