Jean Piaget Born Developed a theory of cognitive development. Believed children construct knowledge through active exploration and move through developmental stages. Literacy learning happens as children experiment, discover, and make meaning.
Lev Vygotsky Born Known for sociocultural theory of learning. Stressed the importance of social interaction in literacy. Created the concept of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), showing how children learn with guidance and support.
Vygotsky’s Work Published (Posthumously) Thought and Language emphasized how language and thought develop together. His work continues to shape literacy education practices today.
Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Passed as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “War on Poverty.” Provided federal funding for schools to improve literacy and reduce educational inequality.
Whole Language Approach Literacy instruction shifted toward meaning-making. Emphasized authentic reading and writing experiences. Reduced focus on isolated phonics drills.
No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) Required schools to use research-based reading instruction. Introduced high-stakes testing focused on reading and literacy achievement.