What does the term 'scaffolding' imply in constructivist teaching?

The term 'scaffolding' in constructivist teaching refers to the process of providing support to learners as they develop new skills or understandings, enabling them to eventually perform tasks independently. This concept draws from the idea that learners require temporary assistance when grappling with complex information or new concepts.

By using scaffolding techniques, educators can tailor their support based on individual learners' needs, gradually reducing assistance as students gain competence and confidence. This can involve guiding questions, modeling responses, or providing tools and resources that facilitate learning, all aimed at helping students achieve mastery on their own.

This strategy is fundamental to constructivist teaching, which emphasizes the importance of building on learners' prior knowledge and experiences. As students progress, they are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, ultimately becoming independent problem solvers.