Social scaffolding: A tool in the classroom

This study investigated the results of incorporating social scaffolding in the classroom. The study looked at the AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination) program and the use of social scaffolding to enable students who demonstrated ability, but were not performing academically to their potential, to succeed in higher level academic classrooms. Two high schools and their feeder middle schools from one school system were represented. The research sample consisted of 4 cohorts of students, two enrolled in the AVID program and two not enrolled in the program.; Data were obtained from SIMS (Student Information Management System) from each school site. The groups were compared using success indicators proposed by the AVID program: attendance, GPA (Grade Point Average), discipline, enrollment in more challenging classes, rate of applying to college, rate of acceptance to college, and rate of dropping out of school.; The results of the study were mixed with evidence to support positive effects of AVID on participants in only two areas: rate of acceptance to college and rate of dropping out of school. Changes in attendance, GPA, disciplinary referrals, enrollment in more challenging classes and rate of applying to college for participants in AVID could not be substantiated.