What does scaffolding refer to in an educational context?

Scaffolding in an educational context specifically refers to instructional techniques that provide support to students as they learn new concepts. This approach allows educators to break down complex skills or ideas into manageable parts and offers temporary assistance to help students achieve understanding and independence in their learning processes.

The goal of scaffolding is to build students’ confidence and competence gradually. For instance, a teacher might start by modeling a task, then guiding students through practice, and finally allowing them to complete tasks independently, gradually removing the support as students become more capable. This method is effective in catering to diverse learning needs and ensuring that all students can progress at their own pace with appropriate support.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of education, such as evaluating student performance, maintaining classroom discipline, or developing curricula, none of which directly relate to the concept of scaffolding in supporting learning.