What does differentiated instruction involve?

Differentiated instruction involves tailoring teaching methods and learning experiences to effectively meet the diverse needs, interests, and abilities of all students in a classroom. This approach acknowledges that learners vary in their readiness, interests, and preferred learning styles, so educators adapt their instruction to ensure each student has access to the curriculum and can engage meaningfully with the material.

By emphasizing varied instructional strategies, assessments, and learning activities, differentiated instruction seeks to enhance student understanding and promote a more inclusive and effective learning environment. This method allows teachers to support students at different skill levels, enabling each learner to progress at their own pace and receive the support necessary for their development.

In contrast, standardizing teaching methods, focusing solely on advanced learners, or applying identical assessments to every student would not address the individual strengths and weaknesses present within the classroom. These approaches can hinder overall student engagement and success, as they do not accommodate the unique needs of each learner.