Differentiating Instruction

Hi There, and welcome back!

So in this entry we will be discussing differentiating instruction, which is a big area of inclusive education. It is essentially based on Tomlinson's elements of differentiation which is that "the teacher modifies content, process and product through students readiness, interests and learning profiles. To break this definition down a little more, it involves the teacher modifying what the student is learning, how the student will learn the information, and what the student will produce to show that he/she has learning. It also involves the student and where they currently are in terms of their knowledge, skills and attitudes, as well as what the student is curious and passionate about, and what type of learner they are. For example, the student could be a kinesthetic learner, and they learn through movement, and "hands on" activities. I think definition is very important when it comes time for the teacher to differentiate instruction, because it helps to break down the different components of learning, and helps one realize what the teacher is responsible for, and what type of individual the student is. It is crucial to consider the student and how he or she will be effected, because it definitely cause the differentiated instruction to be more or less successful. For example, if you are working with a student who is very passionate about dance and movement, and you try to teach them new information through the idea of reading and lecturing, then the chances are very high that the student is not going to benefit in any way, shape or form. This definition also suggests to me that the student and the teacher need to essentially have a relationship, so that the teacher is able to see how they changed in her instruction techniques are directly benefiting the student.

To conclude, differentiated instruction is something that is very important for teachers to do because it helps to provide students with success, which as I stated in my previous blog entry is important for all students to feel, and as a teacher this is your main priority. So yes, I think it is important to find a way to relate the content to your students in a way that is going to help them learn the best. Don't just teach in one way, and hope that all your students grasp the material.