Have you ever seen a construction site where the construction workers begin building a skyscraper by compiling all the bricks at once? No, and even trying to visualize such a sight is nearly impossible. There is a step-by-step process to the art of construction, where buildings are constructed one brick at a time. You will often see supports being used called scaffolding. Construction workers utilize scaffolding to support their structures (and themselves) as they rise into the air.
When you hear the word “scaffolding,” your brain may immediately go to a construction site, but you might be surprised to learn that this term also has a place in the classroom. Good educators use scaffolding techniques to support students as they learn new skills, approach new problems, and rise to their full learning potential.
Using scaffolding in your classroom can ensure student success, allowing students to learn at a pace that works for them while ensuring that a strong foundation for learning is being constructed. As any construction worker can tell you – a strong foundation is critical to success! The same can be said for learning any new skill and teaching successfully in your classroom.
What is Scaffolding?
Scaffolding in education is precisely what it sounds like – providing key, yet temporary support to students as they learn a new skill or attempt to master new information. As in construction, scaffolding is not permanent – it is removed once the building is complete. The same thing applies to using scaffolding successfully with students.
Students need more support as they are first introduced to a skill. Some students may need the support for much longer than others, and that’s okay! As an educator, your job is to understand just how much scaffolding a student might need, and how to ensure that you are removing those supports as students begin to master these skills.
The Importance of Scaffolding in Teaching and Learning
So now that you know what scaffolding is, why is this a critical step in teaching and learning? By breaking down complex concepts into smaller, more manageable steps and offering structured guidance, educators can ensure that all students have access to learning opportunities that may initially seem beyond their reach. Scaffolding creates confidence in students by allowing them to feel success while being supported throughout the process.
Confidence is key when approaching a new task, especially as those tasks become more and more complex. Not only does scaffolding ensure students feel comfortable trying hard things, but it also allows educators to cater to a diverse set of learners – making sure that no student is left behind in the learning process. Each student can progress at their own pace while gradually working towards independent work. Building this strong foundation of skills is critical for students’ success as they continue through school, and for life beyond the classroom.
The Scaffolding Process: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
Okay, so we know what scaffolding is and why it’s so important. Now, how to successfully enact this process in your classroom? First, having a clear learning objective before beginning instruction is always important. This way you can break complex ideas down into smaller, more manageable steps. Direct instruction will occur first. Students will watch and listen as you provide clear guidance and model each part of the process you are expecting them to master.
Next, students will begin the skill with your direct support. Clear and immediate feedback will be imperative throughout this process. As students begin to grasp the concept, you will gradually shift the responsibility to the students by reducing the level of support as they gain confidence and competence. It is important to continue monitoring each student’s progress as they work to ensure success and be prepared to adjust your scaffolding strategies as needed. The amount of support you need to provide could vary greatly from student to student.
This way, you can meet the specific needs and abilities of each individual student. Encourage students to think critically about their work while you continue to support them to feel confident to do so. Eventually, students will be able to work independently on the desired skill. As you are able to release students to work independently, you are then able to narrow down the students who still need direct support and target your instructions and feedback to make it even more effective for those particular students.
When used effectively, scaffolding can help educators bridge the gap between what students already know and what they are capable of learning. It’s an incredibly important tool in the educator’s toolkit. By intentionally breaking down complex tasks, directly modeling skills and strategies, and gradually releasing responsibility, teachers can help students build confidence, competence, and independence.
More than that, scaffolding also plays a crucial role in building a classroom environment where all students, regardless of their learning needs, can thrive and find success with the material. This inclusive and supportive environment is a testament to the power of scaffolding in education.
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