What is the primary focus of Vygotsky's sociocultural theory?

The primary focus of Vygotsky's sociocultural theory is indeed on the influence of social interaction and culture on cognitive development. Vygotsky proposed that children's learning is largely shaped by their social interactions with more knowledgeable others, such as parents, teachers, and peers. He emphasized that cognitive development is not isolated but occurs in a social context where cultural tools and language play critical roles. This theory highlights the importance of cultural context and interaction in shaping the way children think and learn, arguing that cognitive processes are fundamentally rooted in social relationships and cultural practices.

By recognizing that learning is a collaborative process, Vygotsky's work underscores how cultural values and community practices influence the way children understand the world and develop cognitively. His concepts of the Zone of Proximal Development and scaffolding exemplify how social interaction facilitates cognitive growth. Thus, the key aspect of his theory is the critical role that social interactions and culturally mediated experiences play in the cognitive development of children.