What+is+learning?

According to Piaget, learning is a process of assimiliation, accomodation and adaptation, whereby learners "construct" new knowledge from their experiences. Vygotsky proposed the concept of a "Zone of Proximal Development" (ZPD) where optimal learning occurs at the upper edge of someones current knowledge levels. The concept of scaffolding is based on the constructivist concept of the teacher as a guide or facilitator, and is defined as helping and supporting the learner as they stretch their knowledge.