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

Scaffolding in education refers to offering temporary support based on student needs, which is essential for helping learners build their understanding and skills progressively. This concept is derived from Vygotsky's theory of cognitive development and the idea of the "Zone of Proximal Development," where students are supported to learn new concepts just beyond their current abilities.

The key aspect of scaffolding is that it involves providing assistance tailored to the individual student's learning level. For example, a teacher might introduce new vocabulary gradually or offer guided questions during a complex problem-solving task. As students gain confidence and competence, that support is gradually removed, promoting independence and deeper understanding. This process acknowledges that learners require different levels of help at various stages of their educational journey.

This is distinctly different from providing permanent adjustments to the curriculum, as scaffolding is temporary and specific to immediate learning needs. It also contrasts with eliminating guidance entirely, which could leave students feeling lost, or focusing only on group projects, which may not address individual learning needs.