Instructional Scaffolding

Instructional scaffolding breaks complex tasks into smaller, guided steps, helping users or the AI solve problems incrementally.

What is Instructional Scaffolding?

This technique involves structuring prompts so that the AI (or user) is guided through a sequence of steps, each building on the previous. It's especially useful for teaching, troubleshooting, or any process that benefits from incremental learning.

Key Characteristics

• Stepwise Guidance: Breaks down tasks into logical, manageable steps.
• Progressive Complexity: Each step builds on the last, increasing in complexity.
• Supportive Prompts: Offers hints, examples, or checkpoints at each stage.

When to Use

• For educational content, onboarding, or training.
• When teaching new concepts or skills.
• For troubleshooting or process documentation.

Example Prompts

• "First, list the ingredients. Next, describe the preparation steps. Finally, explain how to serve the dish."
• "Step 1: Define the problem. Step 2: List possible solutions. Step 3: Evaluate each solution."

Best Practices

• Clearly outline each step in the prompt.
• Provide examples or hints as needed.
• Allow for feedback or clarification at each stage.

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths:

• Facilitates learning and retention.
• Reduces cognitive load for complex tasks.
• Encourages systematic problem-solving.

Limitations:

• May be too rigid for creative or open-ended tasks.
• Requires careful design to avoid oversimplification.