FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which term is used to describe the teaching method where learners receive hints and clues to facilitate understanding?

1. Scaffolding

2. Private speech

3. Behaviorism

4. Reinforcement

The correct answer is: Scaffolding

The teaching method described in the question is known as scaffolding. This approach involves providing learners with support, such as hints and clues, to help them progressively develop their understanding and skills. Scaffolding recognizes that learners may need assistance at various stages of their learning journey, and it allows educators to tailor their support to meet these needs. The term comes from construction, where scaffolding serves as a temporary structure that supports workers as they build or repair a building. In educational settings, this metaphor translates to the support teachers give students as they work through challenging material. As learners gain more competence, the scaffolding is gradually removed, promoting independence and confidence. The other concepts mentioned do not align with the idea of providing hints and clues. Private speech refers to self-talk used by learners to guide their own thinking and problem-solving. Behaviorism is a theory that emphasizes observable behaviors and the responses to stimuli, rather than the facilitative process of understanding. Reinforcement involves applying rewarding stimuli to increase desired behaviors but does not specifically relate to the scaffolding method of helping learners with their understanding through hints and clues.