SCAFFOLDING IN EFL SPEAKING DEVELOPMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION: A SOCIOCULTURAL THEORY PERSPECTIVE.
Keywords:
Scaffolding, Sociocultural Theory, Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), Speaking skill development, Oral proficiency, Higher education, Discourse scaffolding, EFL learners.Abstract
Scaffolding is an essential instructional strategy in language education, particularly in the development of speaking skills among higher education students. Grounded in Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory, scaffolding provides temporary, structured support that enables learners to perform beyond their independent level. This study explores the theoretical foundations of scaffolding, its types, and its effects on learners’ fluency, accuracy, and confidence in oral communication. Research indicates that guided interaction within the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), combined with intentional discourse scaffolding, significantly enhances speaking performance. The findings highlight the importance of structured support in fostering autonomous, confident, and fluent speakers.
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References
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