Publication Date

7-2015

Document Type

Project

Degree

Master of Education (MEd)

MA Concentration

Educational Technology

Keywords

Differentiated Instruction, Technology, Class Size, Project Based Learning

Advisors

Roger Pence, Pamela A. Redmond, Jim O'Connor

Abstract

Student engagement is the primary factor in student learning. 21st century educators should consistently utilizing technology tools in meaningful ways to engage a diverse group of learners. Once students are engaged, the next strategy educators should use to create multiple pathways to learning is through differentiating instruction.

Differentiated instruction is a way of thinking about teaching and learning in which the educator plans for flexible settings with the class, and modifies the content, process, and product of lessons and units so that all learners reach the clearly defined learning goals. With 21st century challenges such as large class sizes, culturally and cognitively diverse groups of students, limited resources, inconsistent professional development, assorted instructional approaches (such as project based learning), and new Common Core Standards, educators need as much assistance in putting the theory of differentiated instruction into practice as possible. The one-size-fits-all inflexible approach to education is outdated and inefficient. Educators are preparing students for an increasingly global environment and should be employing dynamic instructional strategies such as utilizing technology to differentiate instruction to engage and educate a diverse group of learner profiles.

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