What does "scaffolding" refer to in an educational context?

Scaffolding in an educational context refers to the support and assistance provided by educators or more knowledgeable peers to help a child achieve a higher level of understanding or skill. This concept is based on the idea that learning is most effective when students are guided through challenging tasks with appropriate support that gradually decreases as they become more competent.

For example, a teacher might initially model a problem-solving strategy, then provide hints, and eventually encourage students to attempt the task independently. This method fosters independence in learning, allowing students to build confidence and skills while providing a framework that enables them to tackle progressively more complex challenges. Overall, scaffolding is essential for helping children bridge the gap between what they can do on their own and what they can achieve with guidance, ultimately leading to greater self-sufficiency in their learning processes.