Instructional Scaffolding is a learning theory that
describes the process of student development with the help of an instructor,
tutor or academic mentor. Scaffolding refers to the support given during the
learning process that helps students achieve levels of understanding that they
might not normally be able to on their own.
Generally, scaffolding takes place in a few steps. First,
the instructor or academic mentor does an activity or exercise. Then the group
does it. Then the individual does it. You will see this progression in some of
our examples below.
Examples:
Subject: Math;
Strategy: Hints -
February: 2-3 steps of
an equation
March: 1st step of an
equation
April: No steps
May: Students
generating their own steps
Subject: Biology;
Strategy: Handouts -
Step 1: Incomplete
outline for students to fill out
Step 2: Incomplete
outline with diagrams (no words/explanations provided). Students explain what
is happening
Step 3: Students
assigned topic to create outline/study guide on particular topic
Subject: Anatamy/Physiology
-
Step 1: Cascade of
stress (cortisol release)
Step 2: Real world
application - stress induces weight gain and depresses immune function
Step 3: Apply to own
life - how to counteract and prevent stress
References
Northern Illinois
University http://www.niu.edu/taconnections/2008/fall/scaffolding.shtml
Alibali, M
(2006). Does visual scaffolding facilitate students’ mathematics learning?
Evidence from early algebra. Retrieved September 12, 2008 from http://ies.ed.gov/funding/grantsearch/details.asp?ID=54
This is a useful technique that I would like to use in future sessions with my student. One of the main goal we should have in tutoring is helping our students become independent learners. This technique gradually helps the student achieve this and doesn't throw too much at the student in the beginning. In the end, the student will become an independent learner and may not even realize they achieved this. The technique, thus, is helpful in defeating the mindset that some students have of thinking they cannot learn and understand the information on their own.
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