The Sociocultural Learning Theory is based upon the idea that a learner's environment plays a pivotal role in his/her learning development. According to Vygotsky the learning process actually involves three key themes: culture, language, and the “zone of proximal development”.
The 3 Key Themes of The Sociocultural Learning TheoryCultureVygotsky suggested that cultures are actually formed through the use of tools and symbols, and that this key distinction is what differentiates the human race from that of animals. Intelligence is achieved when a learner can “internalize” the tools that are being provided in the culture itself. When the tools of a culture evolve and emerge, the learners’ ability to grow as individuals and increase their knowledge base is broadened. As such, according to the Sociocultural Learning Theory, it's important for instructors to understand the human mind from a historical point of view as well as a cultural one.