The first English translation of a series of lectures published in Russian in 1926. Vygotsky (1898-1934) believed that the child should be the main figure in the educational process, and that the efforts of the teacher should be directed to organizing not dictating the child's development. Historians should find interest in the presentation of ideas very radical in their day, and educators and psychologists will find him grappling with many issues still current. Includes biographical notes for people he mentions. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.