Scaffold learning uses the zone of proximal development, which is the space between the skills a student can perform independently and those that can be completed with the maximum amount of teacher guidance. Scaffolding uses interactive teaching techniques to allow a student to develop skills.
The process of scaffolding allows a teacher to first show a student how to perform a task; this is followed by the student completing the task with the assistance of the teacher using strategies explained to the student by the teacher. Finally, the student completes the task using the skills developed working alongside the teacher.
Throughout the scaffolding method of teaching the teacher explains to the student each step of the process for the task they are performing. Scaffolding is not a common teaching method in U.S. public schools in 2011.