Scaffolding
Also known as: Instructional Scaffolding, Cognitive Scaffolding
A support strategy that provides temporary, structured assistance to help a learner accomplish tasks they cannot yet perform independently. In digital accessibility, scaffolding can take the form of progressive disclosure, step-by-step guidance, contextual help, or adaptive difficulty levels. Effective scaffolding gradually reduces support as the user gains competence, promoting independence rather than creating dependency on assistive features.
Category: cognitive accessibility · education · design methodology
Related: Cognitive Load · Progressive Disclosure · Guided Access