Who is known for developing the social constructivist approach?

Lev Vygotsky is recognized for developing the social constructivist approach, which emphasizes the importance of social interactions and cultural context in cognitive development. Vygotsky proposed that learning occurs through social interaction, and he introduced concepts such as the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), which describes the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance and support from others. This perspective highlights that knowledge is not just acquired individually but is constructed through collaboration and communication with peers, teachers, and the broader cultural environment. This makes Vygotsky's theories particularly influential in education, as they advocate for instructional practices that involve cooperative learning and social engagement.

In contrast, other figures mentioned, such as Edward Thorndike and Ivan Pavlov, are associated with behaviorist theories focused on observable behaviors rather than social interactions or cognitive development. Jean Piaget, while a significant figure in cognitive development, primarily emphasized individual cognitive processes and stages of development, rather than the social context in which learning occurs, which is central to Vygotsky's approach.