The Nature of Scaffolding

1 Scaffolding provides clear directions and reduces students’ confusion In this case, the teacher anticipates the problems which the students might be encountered. Then, the teacher develops the instructions step by step that explain what students must do to meet the expectations. 2 Scaffolding clarifies purpose In this case, scaffolding helps the students to understand the purpose of doing the tasks and why it is important for them. 3 Scaffolding keeps students on task By providing structure, the scaffolded lesson provides pathways for learners, so that the students can make decisions to choose any path and explore the things. But, in this case, they can not wander off the task since it has been designated. 4 Scaffolding clarifies expectations and incorporates assessment and feedback In the beginning of the activity, expectations are clear since the example of exemplary work, rubrics, and standard of excellence are shown to the students. 5 Scaffolding points students to worthy sources When the teacher provides sources for the students, indirectly, it will reduce their confusion, frustation, and time. Besides, the students can decide which or the sources that will be used. 6 Scaffolding reduces uncertainty, surprise and disappointment In this case,the teacher as the educator tests their lessons in determining the possible problem areas and then refine the lesson to eliminate difficulties so that learning is maximized. 7 Scaffolding delivers efficiency Because the work is structured, focused, and glitches have been reduced or eliminated prior to initiation, time on task is increased and efficiency in completing the activity is increased. 8 Scaffolding creates momentum Through the structure provided by scaffolding, the students spend less time in searching the materials. Therefore, there will be more time on learning and discovering which is resulting in quicker learning.

d. The Advantages of Scaffolding in Teaching

According to McKenzie 1997, one of the primary benefits of scaffolding instruction is that it engages the learners. In this case, the learners do not passively listen to information that is presented only, but through the teacher’s prompting, the learner can build on prior knowledge and form new knowledge. Another benefit of scaffolding instruction is that it can minimize the level of frustation of the learner especially when the teacher is working with the students who have low self-esteem and learning problems. Beside that, scaffolding instruction also motivates the student in learning.