Instructional Scaffolding

Instructional scaffolding is a learning process designed to promote a deeper learning. Scaffolding is the support given during the learning process which is tailored to the needs of the student with the intention of helping the student achieve his/her learning goals (Sawyer, 2006).

Instructional scaffolding is the provision of sufficient support to promote learning when concepts and skills are being first introduced to students. These supports may include the following:

  • Resources
  • A compelling task
  • Templates and guides
  • Guidance on the development of cognitive and social skills

Use of instructional scaffolding in various contexts:

  • Modeling a task
  • Giving advice
  • Providing coaching

These supports are gradually removed as students develop autonomous learning strategies, thus promoting their own cognitive, affective and psychomotor learning skills and knowledge. Teachers help the students master a task or a concept by providing support. The support can take many forms such as outlines, recommended documents, storyboards, or key questions.

Read more about Instructional Scaffolding:  Effective Scaffolding, Theory of Scaffolding, Levels and Types of Scaffolding in The Educational Setting, Scaffolding and Problem-based Learning in The Educational Setting, Promoting Better Learning: Scaffolding

Famous quotes containing the word scaffolding:

    The Liberal State is a mask behind which there is no face; it is a scaffolding behind which there is no building.
    Benito Mussolini (1883–1945)