TLC #034: How To Differentiate Instruction for Learners with Diverse Backgrounds and Prior Knowledge
In this edition of the Learning Chronicle newsletter, we explore the step-by-step guide of how to differentiate instruction for learners with diverse background and prior knowledge.
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Here is your weekly dose of “The Learning Chronicle Newsletter," curated content that leverages the learning sciences, data, and evidence-based research to help K–12 educators, instructional designers, learning designers, course creators, training specialists, and learners enable, support, and optimize how learning happens while preparing learners for the future of work and solving real-world problems.
Welcome to all new subscribers! I am Omotayo Olorunfemi; a learning and development specialist. Check out the archive for previous editions using the first link above. Welcome!!! Once again.
One Learning Quote
“Learn continually; there’s always one more thing to learn.”
- Steve Jobs
One Article
This is the sixth part of an ongoing series on prior knowledge.
Click on the links below to read the previous parts.
How To Unlock the Power of Prior Knowledge and Ignite Effective Teaching and Learning
How To Assess Learners' Prior Knowledge
How To Activate Learners' Prior Knowledge
How To Connect New Learning Concepts to Learners' Prior Knowledge
How To Address Learners' Learning Misconceptions and Inaccurate Beliefs
Differentiating Instruction for Learners with Diverse Backgrounds and Prior Knowledge
Differentiated instruction is an approach to teaching and learning that recognizes and accommodates the diverse learning needs, interests, and abilities of students.
It is based on the belief that all students have unique strengths, weaknesses, and learning abilities and that effective instruction should be tailored to meet individual needs.
In a differentiated classroom, teachers adjust their instruction and assessment methods to address the diverse needs of students. This involves modifying the content, process, and products of learning to ensure that all students can access and engage with the curriculum effectively.
Differentiating instruction is crucial to meeting the diverse needs of learners with varying backgrounds and prior knowledge. There would be a need to adjust your teaching strategies and materials accordingly to accommodate the different levels of understanding and offer additional resources or alternative explanations for learners who require extra support while providing extension activities or advanced challenges for those who have a solid grasp of the topic.
This learning template provides examples of effective strategies to differentiate instruction and create inclusive learning environments that cater to the individual needs of learners.
Step 1: Assess Learners' Backgrounds and Prior Knowledge
Begin by conducting thorough assessments to understand learners' backgrounds, prior knowledge, and learning needs.
Examples of methods to assess learners include:
Pre-Assessments: Administer pre-assessments or diagnostic tests to gauge learners' existing knowledge, skills, and misconceptions.
Surveys or Questionnaires: Use surveys or questionnaires to gather information about learners' cultural backgrounds, interests, learning preferences, and prior experiences related to the topic.
NOTE: This step has been well addressed in a previous article; How To Assess Learners' Prior Knowledge.
Step 2: Flexible Grouping
Implement flexible grouping strategies to accommodate learners with diverse backgrounds and prior knowledge.
Examples of flexible grouping strategies include:
Small Group Instruction: Group learners based on their proficiency levels or specific learning needs. Provide targeted instruction and resources to each group.
Peer Collaboration: Encourage peer collaboration and cooperative learning activities where learners can support and learn from each other.
Step 3: Varied Instructional Materials and Resources
Provide a range of instructional materials and resources to cater to learners' diverse backgrounds and prior knowledge. Examples include:
Differentiated Texts: Offer texts at varying reading levels or in different formats (e.g., audio, visual) to ensure accessibility for all learners.
Multimedia Resources: Use multimedia resources such as videos, interactive simulations, or podcasts to present information in diverse formats and engage learners with different learning styles.
Step 4: Scaffolded Learning Experiences
Design scaffolded learning experiences to support learners at different levels of prior knowledge.
Examples of scaffolding strategies include:
Graphic Organizers: Provide graphic organizers or templates that help learners organize their thoughts and make connections between new and prior knowledge.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps, providing clear instructions and guidance to support learners' understanding and progress.
Step 5: Individualized Learning Paths
Develop individualized learning paths that address learners' specific needs and prior knowledge.
Examples of individualized learning paths include:
Personalized Projects: Assign learners personalized projects or assignments that align with their interests, skills, and prior knowledge. This allows them to explore and deepen their understanding in a self-directed manner.
Learning Contracts: Create learning contracts that outline specific goals, resources, and strategies tailored to each learner's needs and prior knowledge.
Step 6: Ongoing Assessment and Feedback
Continuously assess learners' progress and provide timely feedback to guide their learning journey.
Examples of ongoing assessment and feedback strategies include:
Formative Assessments: Use formative assessments such as quizzes, observations, or discussions to monitor learners' understanding and adjust instruction accordingly.
Individual Feedback: Provide individualized feedback that acknowledges learners' strengths, addresses misconceptions, and offers guidance for further improvement.
Conclusion:
Differentiating instruction for learners with diverse backgrounds and prior knowledge is vital for creating inclusive learning environments. By assessing learners' backgrounds, implementing flexible grouping, providing varied instructional materials, scaffolding learning experiences, offering individualized learning paths, and providing ongoing assessment and feedback, educators can meet the unique needs of each learner and support their growth and success. Differentiation ensures that all learners have equitable access to meaningful and relevant learning experiences, promoting engagement, understanding, and positive learning outcomes.
One Video
This two-minute-plus video below, created by Bright Ideas on YouTube, aptly summarizes the concept of differentiated instruction.
One Learning Question
If I do nothing, what will happen?
If I act right now, what will happen?
What We Are Reading
Efrat Furst on Learning in the brain
MIT Technology Review on How to talk about AI (even if you don’t know much about AI)
Dr Ethan Mollick on Using AI to Implement Effective Teaching Strategies in Classrooms
That’s it for this week.
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