The South African Association for Language Teaching (SAALT) recently hosted a conference at the Breakwater Lodge in Cape Town. The conference provided a platform for presentations that addressed challenges and innovations in language teaching and learning.
Mr. J.C. Rademeyer, motivated by the need to enhance assessment approaches for first-year Academic Literacies modules, presented on this topic. “Scaffolding Assessments to Promote the Acquisition of Academic Literacies in First-Year Distance Learning Students”. This presentation offered practical strategies for educators to support student learning and improve academic performance in a distance learning context.
Picture: Mr Rademeyer delivering his presentation on ‘Scaffolding Assessments to Promote the Acquisition of Academic Literacies in First-Year Distance Learning Students’ at the SAALT conference. Photo credit: Jean-Marie Koch.
What are Scaffolded Assessments?
Scaffolded assessments are structured educational strategies designed to gradually build students’ knowledge and skills by providing supportive guidance. Support is slowly reduced as students gain confidence and proficiency. The concept is based on Vygotsky’s theory of scaffolding, which emphasizes the importance of helping tailored to the learner’s current level. You then progressively withdraw that support as the learner becomes more capable.
In practice, scaffolded assessments may involve:
- Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps: Students are guided through each part of the learning process. Begin with simple tasks that gradually increase in complexity.
- Providing ongoing feedback and guidance: Educators offer detailed instructions, examples, or prompts at each stage, helping students navigate challenges and develop a deeper understanding of the material.
- Gradual reduction of support: As students become more confident and proficient, educators gradually reduce the amount of guidance, encouraging independence.
- Progressive learning objectives: Each assessment builds on previous ones. Lead students toward more complex tasks, like moving from summarising a text to writing a complete essay.
Educators aim to foster independent learning by equipping students with the tools and confidence to complete complex tasks on their own.
Practical Changes in the Assessment Process and Its Impact on Student Performance
Incorporating Vygotsky’s theory of scaffolding into assessments showed a positive impact on the pass rate, with a significant improvement in student performance. Additionally, students benefited from the structured support, showing improved efforts in academic writing skills, dedication to learning, and understanding the importance of critical reflection from assessment feedback.
Mr. Rademeyer’s presentation also highlighted the potential of scaffolding strategies to improve academic writing skills and student performance. It provided practical guidance for lecturers in distance learning environments. It also contributes to the broader academic community. Therefore, the study underscored the importance of ongoing research and collaboration to refine assessment approaches further.
Empowering Student Success Through Innovative Assessment Strategies
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, especially in distance learning, providing students with the right tools to succeed is more critical than ever. Scaffolded assessments are not just a method but a transformative approach. It gradually empowers learners to build the confidence and skills necessary for academic success. Let’s continue to innovate and refine our teaching practices. This will ensure that every student, no matter their starting point, has the opportunity to thrive.
