Who is defined as someone with more knowledge who provides guidance within the ZPD?

The concept of the "more knowledgeable other" (MKO) is central to Vygotsky's theory of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD). An MKO refers to an individual who possesses a greater understanding or experience in a specific area than the learner. This person provides guidance, support, and instruction, helping the learner to master tasks that they may not be able to accomplish independently. The MKO's role is essential for encouraging cognitive development, as they facilitate the learning process by offering insights, feedback, and scaffolding as needed.

In contrast, while a learning partner and peer mentor may offer support, they may not necessarily possess a significantly higher level of knowledge or expertise than the learner. A teaching assistant can provide valuable educational support, but their role is often broader and may not focus exclusively on the interaction described in the ZPD. Thus, the MKO serves as the ideal facilitator in this educational framework.