What is differentiated instruction?

Differentiated instruction is defined as an approach to teaching that includes planning various methods for delivering content and employing diverse processes depending on the needs, interests, and readiness levels of each student. This instructional strategy acknowledges that students learn in different ways and at different paces, and it seeks to provide multiple avenues through which students can engage with the material.

For instance, a teacher may use a combination of whole-group instruction, small groups, and individual assignments, or even different resources tailored to various learning preferences. The goal is to maximize each student's learning experience, ensuring that all learners have access to the curriculum in a way that suits their unique abilities and needs.

In this context, emphasizing high-stakes testing outcomes would not align with differentiated instruction, as it limits the focus to standardized measures rather than individual learning needs. A style of teaching that avoids adapting to student needs directly contradicts the principles of differentiation. Finally, a rigid instructional strategy that emphasizes uniformity across students does not accommodate diverse learning styles and can hinder students who might require different forms of support or enrichment.