What is the concept of “scaffolding” in education?

The concept of "scaffolding" in education refers to offering temporary assistance to facilitate learning. This approach involves providing students with support at critical moments during their learning process, which helps them understand concepts and develop skills. The idea is to build a bridge for students from their current level of understanding to a higher level of understanding. As students start to grasp the material and become more competent, the support is gradually removed, enabling them to become independent learners.

This method aligns with Vygotsky's theory of the Zone of Proximal Development, where learners can achieve their best outcomes with appropriate guidance that is tailored to their individual needs and abilities. The temporary nature of scaffolding ensures that support is not permanent but is instead adjusted according to the student’s progress, which ultimately fosters greater autonomy in their learning journey.