EDUCATION'S

SCAFFOLDING:
CREATING LEARNING
SUPPORT

 What Is Scaffolding?

The term “Scaffolding” was coined in the 1970s. In education, scaffolding is a way for teachers
to provide support while students are mastering new concepts and skills. It is a concept in
education that refers to the process in which teachers or more knowledgeable peers ( we can
say the mediators) provide temporary support to help learners bridge the gap between their
current understanding and the learning goals. This term is often associated with the work of
Vygotsky who is a Russian psychologist and educational theorist.

 Vygotsky & Zone of Proximal Development

Vygotsky, who is well known for several important contributions to educational theory,
coined the term “Zone of Proximal Development” which is based on a student’s current
developmental level and potential developmental level.

According to Vygotsky, the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) stands for the range of tasks
that a learner can perform with the help of a more knowledgeable person, such as a teacher or
parents. Moreover, it has many benefits such as enabling best learning opportunities,
promoting active learning or developing students’ ability of independency learning process.
  Mediator & Mediation

The concept of mediation is related to Vygotsky's sociocultural theory, which emphasizes

the role of social interaction and external tools in cognitive development. In second
language acquisition, mediators play a crucial role in helping learners move through their
Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD). Briefly, mediators are those who are knowledgeable,
and help students in their learning process.

A picture which describes the Zone of Proximal Development

 Why Does the Scaffolding Important?

Education needs scaffolding for a number of reasons, including the fact that it is essential for
efficient learning and the growth of students' cognitive and problem-solving abilities.

 When The Scaffolding Occurs?

Scaffolding occurs when the support provided by the teacher is gradually reduced as the
learner gains proficiency, allowing them to eventually perform the task independently.
  What Are the Benefits of Scaffolding?

The effective teaching method known as scaffolding has its roots in constructivist and
cognitive psychology theories of learning. Teachers can help students get knowledge and skills
by offering focused assistance and progressively giving them more responsibility.
Acknowledging and implementing the ideas of scaffolding in the classroom can result in more
meaningful and productive learning experiences for students, encouraging self-directed
learning and independence.

CONCLUSION

In this study, I examined Vygotsky’s social cultural theory, scaffolding, and related topics, such
as ZPD, and mediator. In conclusion, education's scaffolding, rooted in Vygotsky's Zone of
Proximal Development and mediated learning, is crucial for effective teaching. By supplying
tailored support, educators create an environment fostering best learning opportunities, active
engagement, and problem-solving skills. Scaffolding facilitates a gradual transition to
independence, promoting students' cognitive development. Acknowledging and implementing
scaffolding principles in the classroom results in meaningful and productive learning
experiences, fostering self-directed learning and preparing students for a lifetime of continuous
growth. It stands as a cornerstone for a strong educational foundation.

References
https://www.gcu.edu/blog/teaching-school-administration/what-scaffolding-in-education-how-
applied

https://urtim.com/en/what-is-scaffolding/

https://www.niu.edu/citl/resources/guides/instructional-guide/instructional-scaffolding-to-
improve-learning.shtml#:~:text=Instructional%20scaffolds%20promote%20learning
%20through,students%20become%20lifelong%2C%20independent%20learners.

Prepared By;
Hakan AYKOL – 211023037