Advanced Skill Certificate in Implementing Scaffolding in Online Problem-Based Learning
Published on June 19, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, Today we're talking with Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in online learning and the instructor for the new course "Advanced Skill Certificate in Implementing Scaffolding in Online Problem-Based Learning." Dr. Smith, can you tell us what inspired you to create this course? GUEST: Absolutely, I've seen a growing need for educators and instructional designers to create more engaging and effective online learning experiences, and scaffolding is a powerful tool for achieving that. HOST: That's fascinating. Can you explain what you mean by "scaffolding" in the context of online problem-based learning? GUEST: Sure, scaffolding refers to supportive structures that help learners progress towards their learning goals. It can include things like learning activities, feedback mechanisms, and collaborative learning opportunities. HOST: I see. And what are some of the key benefits of using scaffolding in online PBL environments? GUEST: Scaffolding can help increase student engagement, promote deeper learning, and improve learning outcomes. It also allows learners to take an active role in their own learning, which is crucial for online environments. HOST: That's great to hear. Can you tell us about some of the techniques covered in the course and how they can be applied in diverse online learning platforms and subject areas? GUEST: Yes, we'll be covering cognitive, metacognitive, and social scaffolding techniques, which can be applied in various ways depending on the learning platform and subject area. The course will provide practical skills that learners can apply right away. HOST: It's exciting to think about the potential impact of this course on online learning. In your opinion, what are some of the current industry trends relevant to the course? GUEST: One trend is the increasing use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to provide personalized feedback and support to learners. Another trend is the growing emphasis on social learning and collaborative problem-solving, which aligns well with the principles of scaffolding. HOST: Yes, those are definitely important trends to consider. And finally, what challenges do you see in implementing scaffolding in online PBL, and how does the course address them? GUEST: One challenge is ensuring that scaffolding is tailored to the needs and abilities of individual learners. The course addresses this by providing strategies for assessing learners' needs and adjusting scaffolding accordingly. Another challenge is creating engaging and interactive learning activities that promote active learning, which the course also covers. HOST: Well, Dr. Smith, thank you for sharing your insights with us today. We're excited to see the impact that this course will have on online learning and the teaching profession. GUEST: Thank you for having me. I'm excited to see the transformation that this course can bring to educators, instructional designers, and online learning professionals.
