What is scaffolding in education?

Scaffolding in education refers to the method of providing temporary support to students as they work to accomplish tasks or learn new concepts. This approach is designed to help learners navigate challenging materials or skills that they might not yet be able to master independently. The support can come in various forms, such as guided instruction, hints, or tools that aid understanding.

The idea behind scaffolding is to gradually remove these supports when students demonstrate readiness, allowing them to develop the confidence and ability to perform tasks on their own. This method is crucial in fostering learner independence and promoting deeper understanding of the material.

Effective scaffolding takes into account the individual needs and levels of students, adapting the support as they progress. It emphasizes the importance of mentorship and guided learning as critical elements in enhancing student achievement.