In the context of developmental psychology, what does the term 'scaffolding' refer to in AP Psychology?

• A. A stage of cognitive development in which children begin to think logically about concrete events.
• B. A method of memorization that involves repeating information over and over.
• C. A type of reinforcement used to increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.
• D. A process in which a more knowledgeable individual provides temporary support to help a learner accomplish a task until they can perform it independently.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the context of the term 'scaffolding' within developmental psychology, which focuses on how people grow and change cognitively over time.
2. Understand that 'scaffolding' is related to learning processes, specifically how support is provided during skill acquisition.
3. Recognize that scaffolding involves a more knowledgeable individual (such as a teacher or parent) who offers temporary assistance to a learner.
4. Note that this support is gradually removed as the learner becomes more competent, allowing independent task performance.
5. Conclude that scaffolding is not a stage of development, a memorization technique, or a reinforcement method, but a dynamic teaching strategy to aid learning.