What is the primary function of scaffolding in education?

The primary function of scaffolding in education is to offer temporary support to learners for task achievement. This approach is grounded in the understanding that learners often need guidance and assistance as they develop new skills and understanding, particularly when tackling complex tasks.

Scaffolding is designed to bridge the gap between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with help from others, such as teachers or more knowledgeable peers. This type of support is not meant to be permanent; rather, it is gradually removed as learners gain confidence and competence. The goal is to foster independence, allowing learners to take on more challenging tasks on their own over time.

In contrast, providing permanent assistance would undermine the purpose of scaffolding, as it would prevent learners from becoming self-sufficient. Encouraging competition among learners does not align with the collaborative nature of scaffolding, which emphasizes support and shared learning experiences. Lastly, designing a rigid curriculum for all students contradicts the adaptive and responsive nature of scaffolding, which is tailored to meet individual learners' needs as they progress.