Which type of instructional strategy is best for teaching complex concepts?

Scaffolding is an effective instructional strategy for teaching complex concepts because it involves breaking down the material into smaller, more manageable parts and providing support to students as they navigate through these challenges. This approach allows learners to build on their prior knowledge, gradually taking on more responsibility for their learning as they gain confidence and understanding.

By incorporating scaffolding techniques, instructors can tailor their support to the individual needs of each student, enabling them to progress at their own pace. This method encourages active engagement, prompting students to think critically and apply their knowledge in various contexts. As students master each component, the instructor can gradually withdraw support, leading to greater independence and a deeper understanding of the complex ideas being taught.

In contrast, other strategies such as direct instruction or lecture-based teaching may not provide the same level of tailored support that scaffolding does, particularly for intricate subjects that require more nuanced understanding. Passive learning, which involves little to no engagement from students, is the least effective for grasping complex concepts, as it offers minimal opportunities for students to interact or apply their knowledge actively.