What does the concept of scaffolding in assignments refer to?

The concept of scaffolding in assignments refers to the practice of offering incremental support to help build skills. This approach is grounded in educational theory, which emphasizes the importance of gradually increasing the complexity of tasks while providing various forms of assistance. Scaffolding allows educators to break down learning objectives into manageable parts and provide resources, guidance, and feedback that align with each student's current level of understanding.

Through this method, students receive the support they need to progress without feeling overwhelmed, ultimately leading to greater independence and mastery of the subject matter. By carefully structuring assignments with appropriate levels of challenge and support, teachers can create an environment that nurtures growth and confidence in their students.

The other options do not align with the fundamental principles of scaffolding. For instance, providing all answers before starting contradicts the idea of skill-building, while allowing students to work solely on their own removes the essential support element. Similarly, adjusting deadlines equally for all students does not take into account their varying needs for support throughout the learning process.