Generative AI as the “More Knowledgeable Other’’
Generative AI can fulfill the “more knowledgeable other” role in Lev Vygotsky’s social constructivist concept of the zone of proximal development (ZPD). This role provides on‑demand, personalized support for tasks learners cannot accomplish alone, closes knowledge gaps, and enables the co‑construction of understanding through human–AI collaboration. However, safeguarding critical thinking, data accuracy, bias mitigation, and empathy requires careful design and ongoing oversight.