Differentiation is a technique teachers use to reach students with different learning styles. Teachers need to be open-minded and really study their student to determine what is the best method of reaching certain kids. There are many misconceptions about differentiation. One misconception is that differentiation is a move from direct instruction to cooperative learning groups. Both of these philosophies can be used with differentiation. Another popular misconception is that differentiation is used for students with learning disabilities. While differentiation can be helpful to a student with learning disabilities, it really encompasses all students including average to high ability learners. Some teachers also feel like differentiation means different lessons, assessments, assignments, and grades. However, the truth is, teachers can use the same instructional methods with the same assessments and assignments. It's the instruction components that are different.
Several years ago, I seen a movie entitled Mr. Holland's Opus. It's about a man who is forced to go into teaching against his better wishes. He is a musician that teaches music related classes like chorus, band and drama. He works with high school students and really becomes an effective teacher as he grows into his career. There is one scene where a girl is having problems playing the clarinet. She just can't seem to grasp the concepts of reading and playing notes. This scene exhibits how differentiation can be used to reach students and allow them to reach their full potential. There is another scene where Mr. Holland is losing his class because his students are just not interested in the way he's teaching. He changes it up. Enjoy!!