What does scaffolding in education refer to?

Scaffolding in education refers to the practice of providing temporary support and guidance to students as they develop new skills and knowledge. This approach enables learners to achieve a level of understanding that they would not be able to reach independently. By offering tailored support tailored to individual learners' needs, educators can help students progressively take on more complex tasks and deepen their comprehension.

Effective scaffolding involves breaking down learning into manageable steps and gradually removing assistance as students become more competent. This technique builds confidence and promotes independence, allowing students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for academic success. The essence of scaffolding is to ensure that the support is matched to a student's current capabilities, making it an integral part of the teaching and learning process.