Differentiated instruction focuses on the academic needs and learning abilities of every individual student. By changing the methods of teaching to suit students, teachers are able to adjust the content of the syllabus. This encourages critical thinking in students, and gives them a chance to come forward and demonstrate what they have learned. It also creates a sense of equality among students, including the ones with a learning disability. Differentiated learning provides ample opportunity for students to aim and attain academic success with aplomb.
Advocates of this teaching approach believe differentiated learning raises the standards of learning in a big way. The true essence of this practice lies in the realization that learners and their abilities, readiness and interests vary. Educators have the liberty to set up classrooms and devise methods that would aid all students in thinking, analyzing and comprehending the teaching contents easily. Differentiation does not have hard and fast rules; it is all about options.
The success of differentiated instruction depends on time. Teachers are required to invest ample amount of time getting acquainted with the needs and abilities of students. Teachers have to assess levels of skill and understanding of every student. Teachers have to take into account the key concepts and then spend time preparing the teaching materials and activities.
Differentiated instruction demands a lot of patience and commitment from teachers. The entire process of this approach relies on use of skill and strong professional ethic on the teacher's part. As the methods are not definite, teachers must be willing to think critically before putting any plan or activity into action. In order to make this happen, teachers expect solid support from school administrators and parents.