What does "scaffolding" refer to in an educational context?

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In an educational context, "scaffolding" refers specifically to the concept of offering temporary support as students develop their skills and understanding. This approach is based on the need for learners to first receive assistance when they are confronted with new concepts or challenging tasks. The idea is akin to construction scaffolding, which provides a framework to support workers as they build; similarly, in education, scaffolding helps students as they build their knowledge and competencies.

As students become more proficient, that support is gradually removed, allowing them to take greater control of their learning. This gradual release of responsibility fosters independence, as students learn to apply what they have been taught without constant assistance. The goal of scaffolding is to ensure that learners reach a higher level of understanding without feeling overwhelmed, thus empowering them to engage with more complex material as they progress.

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