Scaffolding & Blended Learning Overview

Scaffolding & Blended Learning Overview

• Scaffolding and blended learning are teaching methods in education.
• Scaffolding is a common method in early childhood education, and is known as scaffold learning, scaffold method, scaffold teaching, and instructional scaffolding.
• Blended learning is a hybrid learning concept that combines traditional in-class sessions with online learning elements.

Challenges in Teaching Practice

• Teaching practice in Africa faces challenges related to diverse schooling environments (rural, farm, urban, semi-urban).
• Common challenges include lack of resources in rural and farm schools, overcrowded classrooms, teacher shortages, and underqualified teachers.

Scaffolding in the Classroom

• Most schools are teacher-oriented, with learners following directions and limited autonomy.
• Scaffolding can be affected by learners' backgrounds, experiences, and knowledge, as well as teachers' tendencies to instruct rather than stimulate inquiry.

Theories of Scaffolding

• Piaget's cognitive constructivism theory emphasizes the teacher's role in providing a challenging learning environment.
• Vygotsky's social constructivism introduces the "zone of proximal development" (ZPD), highlighting the importance of social interaction in learning.
• Bruner's theory of learning also emphasizes building on prior knowledge and social interaction.

Principles of Good Thinking in Teaching & Learning

• Constructive learning is active and requires cognitive processing.
• Learning is cumulative, meaning it builds upon prior knowledge.
• Learning is self-regulated; learners take responsibility for their learning.
• Learning can be intentional and goal-oriented.
• Learning is situated in real-world contexts.
• Learning is collaborative.

Teaching Practice & Teacher Development

• Pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) is essential for effective teaching practice.
• PCK involves understanding of teaching and learning, classroom interactions, monitoring learning, providing feedback, and influencing student outcomes.

Scaffolding in Teacher Development

• Scaffolding can be used to provide temporary support for student teachers, helping them develop into teachers and make independent decisions.
• It can assist in shifting the role of the lecturer/teacher from knowledge provider to guide.

Addressing Needs of Student Teachers

• Constant support, guidance, and evaluation are crucial for student teachers.
• Micro-teaching sessions allow student teachers to practice teaching small groups and focus on specific skills, like lesson introductions or questioning.

Advantages of Scaffolding

• Clarifies the purpose of learning.
• Keeps students on task.
• Clarifies expectations and incorporates assessment and feedback.
• Directs students to relevant resources.
• Reduces uncertainty and disappointment.

Conceptualizing Blended Learning

• Blended learning combines traditional classroom instruction with online learning elements.
• It can be used in various settings, including higher education and workplace learning.

Elements of Blended Learning

• Requires careful planning, collaboration among professionals, and a willingness to change traditional practices.
• Aims to improve pedagogy, increase accessibility and flexibility, and enhance cost-effectiveness.
• Can improve student performance and make learning more effective.
• Requires investment in module design, teacher training, and support.
• Offers a solution to the challenge of engaging students in large classes.
• Provides feedback that informs changes while enhancing the learning experience.

Explore the concepts of scaffolding and blended learning in education. This quiz examines their methods, benefits, and challenges within different teaching environments, particularly in Africa. Understand how these practices can enhance student learning and engagement.