Differentiation is an important aspect of education. Students learn differently, have different needs, different backgrounds, different skills, different ability levels, different interests and more. As educators, we try to create engaging lesson activities that provide a variety of learning experiences and allow students to demonstrate their learning in different ways.
Differentiation should occur in both
how students learn and gain knowledge and skills, and in how they
demonstrate and are assessed on what they have learned.
“In the practice of
education, differentiation is defined as working to address the
abilities, interests, and needs (both perceived and real) of
individuals. Differentiation provides students with
opportunities to approach curriculum from their strengths, as varied
as these might be.” (Sondergeld and Schultz, 2008).
Here are some resources, tips, and tools on differentiation:
Digital Differentiation - ideas and tools for differentiating with digital resources
Tools for Differentiation - helping teachers meet the needs of all learners
Differentiating with Web 2.0 Technologies
Great LiveBinder on Differentiation for High Ability Users
Differentiating Using 21st Century Tools
Differentiator - free web app to help teachers differentiate using Blooms Taxonomy
The How's, Why's and Value of Educational Technology (including differentiation)
Differentiator - free web app to help teachers differentiate using Blooms Taxonomy
The How's, Why's and Value of Educational Technology (including differentiation)
References:
Sondergeld,
T. A., & Schultz, R. A. (2008). Science, standards, and
differentiation: It really can be fun! Gifted
Child Today,31(1),
34-40. Retrieved from
http://search.proquest.com/docview/203260422?accountid=31683
