UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Scaffolding is an instructional technique inspired by Vygotsky’s notion of the zone of proximal development. It involves providing structured support,such as hints,models or prompts,that enables learners to accomplish tasks they could not yet perform alone. As competence increases,the teacher gradually withdraws the support,allowing independent performance. The description in the stem exactly matches this process,so the correct term is scaffolding.

Option A:
Streaming refers to grouping students by ability levels into different tracks or sections and does not describe the interactive support within a task.

Option B:
Scaffolding is dynamic and responsive,adjusting to the learner’s current needs and fading as they gain mastery. Because the stem emphasises temporary support that enables success slightly beyond independent ability,scaffolding is the appropriate completion.

Option C:
Grading involves assigning marks or letter grades to summarise performance after tasks are completed. It does not provide the kind of real-time support during task performance that the stem outlines.

Option D:
Drill practice emphasises repeated exercises to build automaticity and may be used with or without scaffolding, but it does not inherently capture the notion of temporary,gradually withdrawn support.