Educating children with new simple ideas

Scaffolding is a concept based on the theory proposed by Lev Vygotsky, known as, ‘Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)’. It is one of the most popular teaching methods in education. In this mode of instruction a teacher helps the student initially, to learn a new concept and offers maximum assistance.

Gradually, the teacher sets up newer tasks for the students to perform and apply their knowledge independently. The zone of proximal development literally means the distance between what children can do on their own and what they can do when assisted by an adult. Scaffolding in education is a strategy in which a knowledgeable person equips the student and provides him with all the information and support to acquire or learn a particular thing.
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The idea of children learning by playing may seem outrageous to some parents and educational institutions, that firmly believe that learning is all about getting good grades in school. Here, we talk about how the focus of learning goes beyond grades, and how kids can be taught some of the most complex concepts simply by playing certain games and engaging in some activities.

The concept of learning, by playing, is not new. In fact, for ages, children have been taught highly complex concepts by means of games and activities, concepts that they wouldn’t have otherwise grasped. Such games and activities enhance personal learning and development, that no book can provide. It is true that a school provides education, but knowledge is subjective and can be increased and improved, by means of some very simple methods such as playing games.
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