What is the concept of 'scaffolding' in education?

The concept of 'scaffolding' in education refers specifically to offering temporary support to help learners succeed as they master new skills or concepts. This approach allows educators to provide guidance, tailored assistance, and resources during the learning process, gradually removing that support as students gain proficiency and confidence.

The goal of scaffolding is to enhance a student's learning experience by bridging the gap between what they currently understand and what they are capable of learning next. Through this method, learners can achieve a higher level of understanding and independence over time, making it an essential strategy in effective teaching and learning.

While concepts such as providing permanent support, establishing behavioral guidelines, and implementing standardized testing may play roles in educational settings, they do not capture the essence of scaffolding, which is transient support aimed at fostering student development and autonomy.