What does the concept of “scaffolding” involve in instruction?

The concept of “scaffolding” in instruction revolves around offering temporary support to learners as they navigate new concepts or skills. This approach allows instructors to provide assistance that helps students build their understanding and capabilities gradually. As learners gain confidence and proficiency, this support is gradually removed, akin to the physical scaffolding used in construction that is taken down once a building is stable.

This method is essential because it acknowledges that learners often require guidance at the initial stages of learning. By tailoring the assistance to the individual needs of students, instructors can help them achieve mastery before transitioning to independent work. The ultimate goal is to foster self-sufficiency in learners while ensuring they have the necessary foundation to succeed.

In contrast, providing consistent support until learners graduate does not align with the gradual withdrawal of assistance that characterizes effective scaffolding. Eliminating all forms of assistance from the beginning can overwhelm students and hinder their learning process, while ensuring that all students learn at the same pace fails to recognize the diverse needs and learning speeds of individual learners, which is contrary to the personalized nature of scaffolding.