Question

Which one of the following is a good example of scaffolding (learning of a problem-solving task till the student is able to do it by herself)?

1. Offering a reward for solving the problem quickly
2. Telling her that she can do it by trying again and again
3. Providing a half-solved example
4. Telling her she cannot go home till she solves the problem

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 3 : Providing a half-solved example

Scaffolding is a technique to provide the right kind of support in the right amount at right time to increase the child’s competence. Scaffolding is a form of facilitation that facilitates learning.

• Scaffolding can be a pre-planned activity being applied when needed. It aims to transfer responsibility for learning from the facilitator to the learner.
• It suggests that students learn through contact with more capable members of society. The more capable member organizes activities so that the students participate in real activities at their own level of capability. The system of support is called a scaffold. 
• Scaffolding allows students to perform tasks that would normally be slightly beyond their ability without assistance and guidance from the teacher. Scaffolding is an important characteristic of constructivist teaching and learning.
• Providing a half-solved example, pre-teach vocabulary, use of visual aids is some example of scaffolding. 

NOTE: The other statements are examples of positive and negative motivation.

Hence, we can conclude that providing a half-solved example is a good example of 'scaffolding (learning of a problem-solving task till the student can do it by herself).