Presentation Proposal

Im going to prove that core belief number four is true. Im going to argue that collaboration is an especially effective form of learning because it uses the Zone of Proximate Development (ZDP). By contextualizing our tutoring with the idea of ZDP, we have a more concrete method for how to develop the writers we are working with. I will begin my argument by defining and explaining Lev Vygtoskys theory: The Zone of Proximate Development (ZDP). The key idea of the ZDP is that through the guidance of a capable peer-one who understands the task or subject involved in the interaction-the other members of the group acquire new understanding and grow. I will prove that this is especially effective by comparing it to the weaknesses found in independent learning. I will acknowledge the strengths of learning independently, but focus on the features-present in collaboration-that individual learning lacks. Ultimately, I will argue that an understanding of ZDP is important, because it gives us a specific strategy for developing the writers we work with. Weve discussed in class the importance of meeting students where they are in their development and doing what we can to help them grow (I will use articles reviewed in class to prove this). ZDP gives us a clearer understanding of how to do this: We can understand through ZDP that an effective way of helping writers develop is by collaboratively creating with them a product above, but proximate to, where their abilities are. The writer internalizes the understanding made by the creation of this product and applies it later, independently. Then, I will ground my theory in my work as a writing fellow and in my education courses. In both, I will focus on the change in behavior and skills of those Ive worked with. For the Fellowing program, I will do this by examining differences in the writers execution of their assignments. For my education course, I will do this by examining the change in quality and frequency of participation by different members of my long-standing group. I will also have the class perform a collaborative activity, requiring them to accomplish a task they are individually not capable of. Afterwards, Ill relate their experience in the activity to the theory of ZDP, so that they have a personal understanding of its application. Notes -based on new article, especially relevant for us because universities typically dont have supportive structure for collaboration and so we, as a part of the university.