Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory (1978) It emphasizes that learning is a social process and knowledge is constructed through interaction with others. Cognitive development isn't solely an individual process but is deeply rooted in social interactions with others, particularly those who are more knowledgeable, like parents, teachers, and peers. Cognitive development happens first at a social level (between people) and then at an individual level (internalized by the learner). Learning leads development. Learning starts socially (Interpsychological level): Learners first acquire knowledge through interaction with others – teachers, parents, or peers. Then it becomes internal (Intrapsychological level): What is first done with support gradually becomes part of the learner’s own thinking and skills. Zone of Proximal Development ( PD): This is the distance between a child's current ability to solve problems independently and their potential ability with guidance and collaboration from an MKO. Learning occurs most effectively within this zone. Learning occurs best in the zone between what a learner can do alone and what they can do with guidance.