Social, Cognitive, and Neurological Factors in Learning

AP Psychology· difficulty 3/5

A researcher pairs 5-year-olds with either a same-age peer or a slightly older child to solve a 24-piece puzzle. Children paired with the older child completed the puzzle 38% faster and, when later tested alone, solved a similar puzzle more independently. The older child often pointed at corner pieces and said, "Try those first."

The older child's hints best illustrate:

  • A

    Operant shaping

  • B

    Egocentrism

  • C

    Habituation

  • D

    Scaffolding

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Explanation

Scaffolding refers to temporary, tailored support from a more capable partner that is gradually withdrawn as the learner gains competence. The hint is calibrated to what the younger child needs at that moment.

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