Vygotsky’S Socioculturaltheoryand Dynamic Assessmentin Language Learning

Applying Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory into assessment, ‘dynamic assessment’ in language learning might offer new insights to language classroom. Vygotsky’s theory basically offers that if we want to understand learning and development, we have to focus on process instead of product. In other words, a Vygotskian approach to language assessment suggests that ‘process of development’should be seen as a predictor of the individual’s or group’s future performance. This paper takes an in depth look at the issue of dynamic assessment from the standpoint of Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory. First the theoretical framework is drawn, and then the methodological applications of the theory are discussed.