SEHS Student Learning and Development 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which theorist proposed the concept of the 'zone of proximal development' (ZPD)?
- Jean Piaget
- Lev Vygotsky (Correct answer)
- Erik Erikson
- B.F. Skinner
Correct answer: Lev Vygotsky
Vygotsky's ZPD describes the gap between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance.
Question 2: A student who studies effectively by connecting new information to existing knowledge is using which strategy?
- Rote memorization
- Elaborative encoding (Correct answer)
- Spaced repetition
- Passive review
Correct answer: Elaborative encoding
Elaborative encoding strengthens memory by linking new material to prior knowledge, creating richer neural connections.
Question 3: During Piaget's concrete operational stage, children typically develop the ability to:
- Use abstract reasoning
- Understand conservation of matter (Correct answer)
- Form object permanence
- Use symbolic play
Correct answer: Understand conservation of matter
Conservation—understanding that quantity doesn't change despite changes in appearance—emerges during the concrete operational stage (ages 7–11).
Question 4: Which type of memory stores general knowledge and facts about the world?
- Episodic memory
- Procedural memory
- Semantic memory (Correct answer)
- Working memory
Correct answer: Semantic memory
Semantic memory holds factual knowledge and concepts independent of personal experience.
Question 5: A teacher breaks a complex task into smaller, manageable steps for a struggling student. This approach is best described as:
- Differentiated instruction
- Scaffolding (Correct answer)
- Cooperative learning
- Direct instruction
Correct answer: Scaffolding
Scaffolding provides temporary, structured support that is gradually removed as the student gains competence.
Question 6: Intrinsic motivation is best characterized by a student who:
- Studies to earn a reward from parents
- Reads extra books out of genuine curiosity (Correct answer)
- Avoids failure to keep their GPA high
- Competes to outrank classmates
Correct answer: Reads extra books out of genuine curiosity
Intrinsic motivation comes from internal interest and enjoyment rather than external rewards or pressures.
Question 7: Which learning style model classifies learners as visual, auditory, or kinesthetic?
- Bloom's Taxonomy
- VAK model (Correct answer)
- Multiple Intelligences Theory
- VARK model
Correct answer: VAK model
The VAK model categorizes learners by their preferred sensory modality: visual, auditory, or kinesthetic.
SEHS Student Learning and Development 2
Which theorist proposed the concept of the 'zone of proximal development' (ZPD)?