What does the term "scaffolding" refer to in Vygotsky's theory?

In Vygotsky's theory, "scaffolding" refers to guided support that is tailored to a child's individual needs in order to promote learning. This concept underscores the importance of providing students with temporary assistance to help them achieve tasks that they cannot complete independently. As a child progresses and becomes more competent, the amount of support is gradually diminished, allowing them to take full ownership of their learning.

Scaffolding is rooted in the idea of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), which characterizes the range of tasks that a child can do with assistance but not yet independently. This approach encourages active engagement and collaboration between the child and a more knowledgeable other, such as a teacher or peer.

By focusing on the child's current capabilities and providing the necessary guidance, scaffolding helps build confidence and fosters independent learning skills, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of the material.