Discusses L. S. Vygotsky's theories and explores why these theories can affect the improvement and reform of contemporary education and research, both in Russia and in the United States. The author also examines the main theses behind Vygotsky's cultural historical theory of the psychological development of personality and how these theses are…

Questions what attributes and approaches are most effective and essential for a primary school to achieve their mission. Identifies three attributes: (1) success (defined here as establishing the primary mission as the successful development of the child); (2) wonder (referring to techniques that inspire this response); and (3) confidence. (MJP)