The concept of "scaffolding" in education refers to what?

Scaffolding in education refers to the method of offering temporary support to students to help them achieve independence in their learning. This approach recognizes that learners often require guidance and tools to build their understanding of a subject, especially when they are first exposed to new concepts or skills. The goal of scaffolding is to gradually reduce the level of support as students become more proficient, allowing them to gain confidence and independence in their abilities.

For instance, a teacher might provide hints, cues, or structured frameworks initially and then slowly withdraw this assistance as students develop their understanding and skills. This process enhances learning by addressing individual needs and fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.