Readiness level just focuses on the ability level of the student and this can lead to situations where gifted students may just be expected to teach themselves.
Thanks Inky!
BTW, What does he mean by 'hinges and props?'
Great insight into 'readiness level' - my son is so extraverted in his learning style needs that it wouldn't occur to me, or anyone else, to set him loose on any kind of independent study, so I just 'naturally' assume that folks are as thoughful about other gifties.
But also, I do think 'readiness level' reflects my basic underlying assumptions that 'maybe you don't owe me teaching, but you at least owe me the opportunity to use my time well, so stop the worksheets and endless repetition and let me read in the corner.' After my own childhood it's hard for me to fully imagine every child having the right to an eduation that actually fits them. I think I'd be able to take ZPD more seriously if I believed that the majority school folks REALLY took the perspecitive that helping my kid grow academically is just as important as helping a child who is obviously struggling. Great Catch!
Thanks,
Grinity
