Abstract: This is a case study on the students’ attitude and perspectives on the effectiveness of the online scaffolding in a graduate computer literacy course. This study used the qualitative and quantitative mixed methods. Sixty-four students and one faculty member participated in this study. The findings show that the online scaffolding is an effective approach to integrate Internet technology in the computer project-based
learning and help“Leave Nobody Behind.” It is beneficial for both the students and the faculty. Learning through the online scaffolding environment also models the students the effective use of online learning resources that impacted students in their life time.

Keywords: scaffolding, online learning, distance education, resource-based learning

1. Introduction
Vygotsky asserted that learning is a social process [19]. Social Learning Theory (SLT) is a category of learning theories which is grounded in the belief that human behavior is determined by a three-way relationship between cognitive factors, environmental influences, and behavior [2].“If people  observe positive, desired outcomes in the observed behavior, then they are more likely to model, imitate, and adopt the behavior themselves” [20].

To observe the peer’s behaviors could result in even more peer modeling effect in the learner. The metaphor of scaffolding is grounded in the social learning theories of Vygotsky’s “Zone of Proximal Development” (ZPD). Vygotsky said: …the difference between the child’s developmental level as determined by the independent problem solving and the higher level of potential development as determined through problem solving under adult guidance or in collaboration with more capable peers. [19] Learning support falls into three categories: cognitive, affective, and systematic [18]. They are usually in a combined mechanism in the teaching process. The skeleton of the concept is also guided by a series of the guidance, counseling, coaching, tutoring, assessment, etc. [13]. Scaffolding is an effective teaching approach to support learners [1]. The theoretical concept of the social learning underlines the scaffolding perspective. With the scaffolding, learners are guided, supported and facilitated during the learning process [18].“Scaffolding refers to providing contextual supports for meaning through the use of simplified language, teacher modeling, visuals and graphics, cooperative learning and hands-on learning” [7]. Combined with the scaffolding, the learning of the new multimedia project creation provides more interest and motivation, keeping students on track and increasing retention [14]. (This article only a summary, to get the full text please visit :  http://www.scribd.com/doc/41170799/101017 )

Alabama A & M University, School of Education
4900 Meridian St., AL 35762, USA
sha.li@aamu.edu