Question

A way of providing support to children through feedback, modelling, instruction and questioning is

• A. Affective filter
• B. Input hypothesis
• C. Scaffolding
• D. Language acquisition device

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Scaffolding

Scaffolding in Education

Understanding the Concept

• Scaffolding refers to a pedagogical technique where a teacher or more skilled peer provides temporary support to a learner to help them achieve a task that would be too difficult to accomplish independently.
• This support is gradually withdrawn as the learner becomes more competent, enabling them to perform the task on their own.

Key Components of Scaffolding

• Feedback: Providing constructive criticism and guidance on the learner's progress.
• Modelling: Demonstrating the desired skill or task.
• Instruction: Explicitly teaching strategies and concepts.
• Questioning: Asking targeted questions to prompt thinking, encourage problem-solving, and check understanding.

Theoretical Basis

• The concept of scaffolding is closely linked to the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), a theory developed by psychologist Lev Vygotsky.
• ZPD is the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance from a more knowledgeable person.

Importance in Teaching and Learning

• Scaffolding helps bridge the gap between a learner's current abilities and their potential abilities.
• It fosters independent learning and problem-solving skills.
• It is crucial for effective classroom management and differentiated instruction, catering to diverse learning needs.

Competitive Exam Relevance

• Questions on scaffolding are common in exams for educators, particularly those focusing on child development, educational psychology, and teaching methodologies.
• Understanding Vygotsky's ZPD and its practical application through scaffolding is a key learning objective for aspiring teachers.