What?

Scaffolding is the support and guidance provided by a more knowledgeable other to help learners acquire new knowledge or skills, gradually reducing assistance as learners become more capable.

When?

Scaffolding became a popular concept in education during the 1970s, introduced by Jerome Bruner, a prominent cognitive psychologist and educational theorist, who emphasised its role in facilitating learning and cognitive development.

How?

Teachers can use scaffolding in the classroom by breaking complex tasks into manageable steps, providing modelling and guidance, offering prompts and cues, and gradually reducing support as students gain competence and independence in their learning.

Why?

Scaffolding has transformed the way we think about:

• individualised instruction

• zone of proximal development (ZPD)

• learning independence

• confidence and motivation

• cognitive development