Vygotsky's theory suggests that cognitive development primarily results from what?

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Vygotsky's theory emphasizes the crucial role of social interactions and cultural context in cognitive development. According to his perspective, learning is fundamentally a social process that occurs through interaction with more knowledgeable others, such as parents, teachers, and peers. These interactions not only help in acquiring new knowledge but also shape an individual's understanding and cognitive skills.

By engaging with cultural members, learners are exposed to the language, practices, and tools of their culture, which in turn influences their cognitive abilities. This cultural context and social interaction facilitate the development of higher-order thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity, as learners are guided and supported through collaborative dialogue and shared experiences. Vygotsky referred to this concept as the Zone of Proximal Development, where students can achieve more with the assistance of others than they could independently.

In contrast, the other options do not encapsulate the essence of Vygotsky's theory as effectively. Individual study, while valuable for personal learning, does not inherently involve the vital social interactions that foster cognitive growth. Formal education, though a setting for learning, can sometimes neglect the cultural and social dynamics emphasized by Vygotsky in favor of standardized curricula. Lastly, genetic predisposition might influence cognitive abilities, but Vyg

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