A Summary of Research Exploring Hard and Soft Scaffolding for Teachers and Students Using a Multimedia Supported Learning Environment
Thomas A. Brush
Indiana University
John W. Saye
Auburn University
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to summarize and synthesize findings from a line of research investigating the potential of scaffolding for supporting student inquiry about ill-structured social problems. Specifically, we implemented a problem-based, student-centered instructional unit (Decision Point!) with 11th grade general history students in our partner teachers’ classroom on three separate occasions. In this paper, we use data obtained from these implementations to address the following questions: Can we design scaffolds to assist students with engaging in ill-structured content more deeply so that they can perceive the complexity of ill-structured problems?; Can scaffolds assist students with considering alternative perspectives and arriving at problem solutions?; Can scaffolds assist students with handling the cognitive demands required of disciplined inquiry?; How can we support teachers in providing more effective soft scaffolding for students?
About the Author(s)...
Dr. Thomas Brush is Associate Professor of Instructional Systems Technology at Indiana University, Bloomington. He teaches courses in technology integration in k-12 environments, computer-based instruction, and the design of open-ended learning environments. His primary research interests involve the use of technology to support student-centered, inquiry oriented activities in k-12 classrooms. He can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Dr. John Saye is Associate Professor of Secondary Social Studies Education at Auburn University. Dr. Saye teaches courses in secondary social studies methods and is a coordinator of the secondary social studies program at Auburn. Dr. Saye’s primary research interests involve the design and implementation of problem-based historical inquiry activities in high school social studies classrooms. He can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
