In educational contexts, what does the term "scaffolding" refer to?

Scaffolding in educational contexts refers to the method of providing temporary support to students as they develop independence in their learning. This approach enables educators to assist students in reaching a level of understanding that they may not be able to achieve on their own. The support can take various forms, such as hints, structured guidance, or the breaking down of complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps. As students gain confidence and competence, the educator gradually removes this support, allowing students to take more responsibility for their learning. This technique fosters a deeper understanding of the material and promotes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

In contrast to this concept, permanent support would not encourage student growth, while insisting that students work independently from the beginning may lead to confusion and frustration. Assignments created without guidance can overwhelm students, as they may not yet have the necessary skills or knowledge to tackle them effectively. Scaffolding strikes a balance that supports student learning while promoting eventual independence.