ABSTRACT

This chapter presents the learning gap that might be understood in terms of the relationship between the teacher and the pupil. This relational focus extends not only to the participants but also to the relationships between the processes of teaching and learning. Feedback becomes part of the communicative interaction in this space. In this chapter, understandings about teaching and learning, and about teachers and pupils, are located within social constructivism. Particular attention is given to exploring Vygotsky's notion of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD). The ZPD is a concept based on the construction of a 'gap' or zone which extends beyond existing learning and development, and requires interaction with a more knowledgeable other. It is explored within this chapter as a conceptual space in which feedback can be usefully understood and applied from a relational perspective. A further dimension to understand in Vygotsky's theory, having addressed the interpsychological level (between people), must also consider the intrapsychological (internal thinking).