What is the primary purpose of "scaffolding" in education?

The primary purpose of scaffolding in education is to establish connections between prior and new knowledge, facilitating a deeper understanding of the material being taught. Scaffolding involves providing support structures that help learners build on what they already know as they encounter new concepts or skills. This approach enables students to grasp complex ideas more easily by linking them to familiar information, ultimately promoting better retention and comprehension.

By gradually reducing support as learners gain confidence and competence, scaffolding empowers students to tackle more challenging tasks independently. This method not only enhances learning but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The emphasis on connecting existing knowledge with new insights makes scaffolding a vital instructional strategy for effective teaching and learning.