Differentiation
It is impossible to discuss stretch and challenge without recognising the value of differentiation. Differentiation seeks to enable an adequate level of challenge for each student:. If learning is too easy, it will become boring and demotivating; if it is too difficult it will cause anxiety and once again, will have a demotivating effect.
There are so many methods of differentiation, including those listed below. See if you can add to the list:
Task
Level
Pace
Content
Access
Interest
Activities
Process
Method
Sequence
Teacher
Expectation
Outcome
Response
Feedback
One approach that works well within the Employability & Community department ‘Get That Job’ courses is to employ a negotiated differentiation. This involves identifying the learning success criteria and asking students to select outcomes and processes aimed at achieving these. The students benefit from having autonomy and control over their learning and are likely to enjoy their learning as a result.
For more on differentiation, don’t forget to visit the Pass It On – Planning for Learning site.