Theories of Childhood, Second Edition (Carol Garhart Mooney) / quote 65 of 70
Scaffolding a child's learning
Vygotsky referred to the assistance a teacher or peer offers a child as scaffolding. A house painter working on a house uses a scaffold to reach parts of the house that would otherwise be out of reach. In the same way, adults and peers can help a child “reach” a new concept or skill by giving supporting information. Vygotsky believed this could be done not only by the teacher but also by the child’s peers who already possess the desired skill. Vygotsky believed that in order to scaffold well for children, teachers need to be keen observers.