TLC #035: How To Scaffold Learners’ Learning Experiences By Building upon Prior Knowledge
In this edition of the Learning Chronicle newsletter, we explore the step-by-step guide of how to scaffold learners’ learning experience by building upon their prior knowledge.
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Welcome to all new subscribers! I amOmotayo Olorunfemi; a learning and development specialist. Check out the archive for previous editions using the first link above. Welcome!!! Once again.
One Learning Quote
"Curiosity is the beginning of knowledge. Action is the beginning of change." —James Clear
One Article
This is the seventh and last part of an ongoing series on prior knowledge.
Click on the links below to read the previous parts.
How To Unlock the Power of Prior Knowledge and Ignite Effective Teaching and Learning
How To Assess Learners' Prior Knowledge
How To Activate Learners' Prior Knowledge
How To Connect New Learning Concepts to Learners' Prior Knowledge
How To Address Learners' Learning Misconceptions and Inaccurate Beliefs
How To Differentiate Instruction for Learners with Diverse Backgrounds and Prior Knowledge
How To Scaffold Learners’ Learning Experiences By Building Upon Prior Knowledge
Scaffolding refers to a method where teachers offer a particular kind of support to students as they learn and develop a new concept or skill.
Gradually scaffolding learning experiences is a powerful instructional approach that supports learners in building upon their prior knowledge and gradually introduces progressively complex concepts.
This learning template provides examples of effective strategies to scaffold learning experiences and facilitate meaningful understanding and mastery of new concepts.
Step 1: Activate Prior Knowledge
Begin by activating learners' prior knowledge through reflective questions, brainstorming, or concept mapping. Examples include:
Ask learners to recall what they already know about the topic and share their thoughts and experiences related to it.
Engage learners in a group discussion where they share their prior knowledge and make connections to the new content.
Step 2: Provide Clear Learning Goals
Clearly communicate the learning goals and objectives to the learners. This helps them understand the purpose of the learning experience and what they are expected to achieve.
Examples of providing clear learning goals include:
Clearly state the specific knowledge or skills that learners will acquire by the end of the learning experience.
Break down the learning goals into smaller, more achievable objectives, and share them with the learners.
Step 3: Introduce Basic Concepts
Start with basic concepts that build upon learners' prior knowledge. Present information in a clear and concise manner, using examples, analogies, or visuals to aid understanding.
Examples of introducing basic concepts include:
Begin with simple definitions or explanations that connect to what learners already know.
Use real-life examples or scenarios that illustrate the basic concepts and their relevance.
Step 4: Provide Structured Practice
Offer structured practice opportunities to reinforce understanding and build confidence.
Examples of providing structured practice include:
Provide guided exercises or worksheets that allow learners to apply the basic concepts they have learned.
Use interactive online activities or simulations that provide immediate feedback and support learners' understanding.
Step 5: Progressively Increase Complexity
Gradually increase the complexity of the concepts and tasks, building upon learners' understanding.
Examples of strategies to increase complexity include:
Guided Practice: Provide guided practice activities that allow learners to apply the new concepts in a structured manner. Start with simple tasks and gradually increase the level of difficulty.
Problem-Solving Scenarios: Present problem-solving scenarios or open-ended questions that require learners to analyze and apply their understanding of the new concepts in more complex situations.
Step 6: Provide Opportunities for Application and Transfer
Design activities that promote the application and transfer of knowledge and skills to real-world contexts.
Examples of strategies to promote application and transfer include:
Project-Based Learning: Assign projects or tasks that require learners to apply their understanding of the new concepts in practical, real-world scenarios. Encourage creativity and critical thinking.
Reflective Exercises: Include reflective exercises or journaling prompts that prompt learners to connect the new concepts to their own experiences and consider their potential applications in various contexts.
Step 7: Provide Ongoing Support and Feedback
Offer ongoing support and feedback to learners as they progress through the learning experience.
Examples of providing ongoing support and feedback include:
Formative Assessments: Use formative assessments such as quizzes, concept checks, or discussions to gauge learners' comprehension of the new concepts and provide targeted feedback.
Peer Feedback: Encourage peer feedback and collaboration to foster a supportive learning community where learners can provide insights and suggestions to enhance each other's understanding.
Offer additional resources, such as readings, videos, or tutorials, to support learners who require extra assistance.
Conclusion
Gradually scaffolding learning experiences by building upon prior knowledge and introducing progressively complex concepts is a practical instructional approach. By activating prior knowledge, setting clear learning goals, introducing basic concepts, providing structured practice, increasing complexity, encouraging critical thinking, and offering ongoing support and feedback, educators can create a scaffolded learning journey that supports learners in mastering new concepts and skills. This approach promotes meaningful understanding, confidence, and a sense of achievement as learners progress towards higher levels of knowledge and expertise.
One Video
This five-minute-plus video below, created by Teachings in Education on YouTube, aptly summarizes the concept of scaffolding learning experiences.
Scaffolding Instruction for Students
One Learning Question
What is taking up too much of my time right now?
What is getting too little?
Which of them do I need to focus on?
What We Are Reading
A.J. Juliani on 7 Ways to Assess the Process, Not the Product
The Observatory on What is Complex Thinking?
Dr Philippa Hardman on How to Turn Your Notes into a Personalized Learning Experience, using ChatGPT
That’s it for this week.
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