Application Of Theory Of Zone Of Proximal Development (ZPD) In Group Learning Context In Early Childhood

Vygotsky with the theory of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) explains about learning models that prioritize social interaction activities between students and teachers and between students and peers during the process of learning activities to find problem solving. Learning with the group method requires good interaction among its members by using language development in conveying and receiving language as well as cognitive development to digest every opinion conveyed so that solutions can be collected for the problems being faced and their existence. in the process This activity also requires scaffolding in the form of full assistance given to children during the early stages of learning activities and then gradually reducing the intensity of the assistance until then the child is released to be able to take full responsibility for solving problems or assignments given by educators in their group. This study used a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through observation, interviews and documentation studies. The results of this study indicate that the use of ZPD theory in group learning activities is very helpful for early childhood to find solutions to problems because they are still in the early stages of learning activities which actually really need maximum affection and assistance in order to achieve learning goals and maximize the development of children's potential as a whole.