What is Cognitive Development Theory

Project Engage utilizes a scaffolded approach to strategic mentoring grounded in the social constructivist theory of Vygotsky. Peer mentors, a career counselor, and STEM faculty serve as three scaffolding layers of more knowledgeable others (MKOs) who are responsible for assisting the mentee in achieving his/her zone of proximal development (ZPD), a higher level of learning or understanding than could be achieved alone. Detailed information is shared in this chapter on the selection, training, and responsibilities of the peer mentors, given that they serve as the first level of scaffolding (i.e., primary mentors for the freshmen). The career counselor and Engage faculty members constitute levels two and three of scaffolding. A survey was administered to evaluate the effectiveness of the mentoring program. Results from the survey of the mentees revealed positive perceptions of the mentoring program.