The zone of proximal teacher development

Toward the end of his short life, Lev Vygotsky found himself teaching teachers in a remote part of the USSR. Though his influence as a developmental psychologist is well-established, little is known about his approach to teacher development. This article applies the researcher’s core concept, the zone of proximal development to teacher education. The resulting model for educating teaching candidates within zones of proximal teacher development (ZPTD) integrates Vygotskyan theory into Western models of teacher education. Recommendations are offered with regard the four stages of the ZPTD and implications for the content and sequence of the teacher preparation curriculum.

Research highlights► Synthesizes findings from Vygotskyan research in teacher education. ► Recognizes and addresses the powerful influence of prior learning experiences and local teaching practices on candidates’ development. ► Presents a Zone of Proximal Teacher Development and implications for the teacher education curriculum.