Introducing Vygotsky: A Guide for Practitioners and Students in Early Years Education

Sandra Smidt takes the reader on a journey through the key concepts of Lev Vygotsky, one of the twentieth century's most influential theorists in the field of early education. His ground-breaking principles of early learning and teaching are unpicked here using every-day language, and critical links between his fascinating ideas are revealed. Introducing Vygotsky is an invaluable companion for anyone involved with children in the early years. The introduction of Vygotsky's key concepts is followed by discussion of the implications of these for teaching and learning. Each chapter also includes a useful glossary of terms. This accessible text is illustrated throughout with examples drawn from real-life early years settings and the concepts discussed include: mediation and memory, culture and cultural tools, mental functions, language, concepts and thinking, activity theory, and play and meaning. This book is an inspiring reminder that learning is something that happens all the time, through the interactions learners have with more experienced 'others' who may be either adults or children. Essential reading for all those interested in or working with children, Introducing Vygotsky emphasizes the social nature of learning and examines the importance of issues such as culture, history, language, and symbols in learning.