Work

Examining the zone of proximal development in learning and development for climate mitigation

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: This paper investigates a horticultural community's approaches to developing new farming practices to mitigate climate change induced food insecurity. Drawing on the concept of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) from cultural-historical activity theory, the paper illustrates how the strong cultural and historical attachment to existing practices plays as significant a role as the intractability and unpredictability of the changing rainfalls in mediating community members' investment in new practices. The study suggests that what is perceived as 'safe,' materially and socially, is playing a central role in setting the boundary of their ZPD.

Source: Mind Culture and Activity

DOI: 10.1080/10749039.2021.1960566

Authors: Raviro Chineka, Keiko Yasukawa

Institution: University of Technology Sydney

Language: English

Topic: Innovative Education and Learning Practices

Subfield: Human Factors and Ergonomics

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Climate action

Open Access status: green

Funders: Australian Government, University of Technology Sydney