What are scaffolds in the educational context?

Scaffolds in the educational context refer to external supports for learning that help students accomplish tasks they cannot complete independently. This metaphor is derived from the construction industry, where scaffolding provides support to build structures. In an educational setting, scaffolds can include various forms of assistance that aid learners, such as graphic organizers, templates, guidance, or collaborative activities.

These supports are essential for promoting comprehension and facilitating mastery of new concepts by progressively withdrawing assistance as learners become more competent. This gradual removal of support allows students to gain confidence and independence in their learning processes.

While visual aids, technology tools, and teacher-directed exercises can serve as forms of scaffolding, the term specifically encompasses a broader range of strategies designed to enhance learning, rather than being limited to any single method or tool. Therefore, understanding scaffolding as external support highlights the importance of structured assistance in education.