Week+8+Reflections+(Jan.+11,+2010)

Differentiated Instruction has become essential for teachers to take teaching and learning to another level. It is no longer acceptable for teachers to conduct their classrooms using passive learning methods such as lecture, copying notes, answering questions and completing worksheets The assigned articles did an excellent job explaining the basics or an overview of using differentiation in the classroom.

Over last five years our district has worked hard to provide effective professional development that includes teachers using data to drive their instructional practices and learning activities. We have also provided numerous workshops on differentiation in the classroom. However, we still need to work with teachers to better implement differentiation by providing ongoing support and job embedded professional development opportunities. Another article ([]) that I found illustrated ways that teachers can be mindful and selt reflective to better meet the needs of diverse learners. According to Galasso and Aportela: The need to remain current on classroom strategy, management, and research is integral to remaining viable in a challenging, and often overwhelming, environment. After observing, assessing, and implementing these strategies in different school systems, a cumulative model was developed, consisting of five traits, skills, and abilities that aid teachers while working in a diverse classroom. The model is comprised of the following skills:
 * 1) Skill 1: Being Self-Aware
 * 2) Skill 2: Being Present
 * 3) Skill 3: Being Creative
 * 4) Skill 4: Being Connected
 * 5) Skill 5: Teaching Resilience

I believe that a teacher must possess the above skills and traits to become a truly effective teacher that not only incorporates 21st century learning skills into their classroom but also works to differentiate learning content, the learning process and develops authentic projects so that students demonstrate their learning through a variety of expressive products.

Differentiation can be compared to using multisensory learning that accomodates the learning styles of students. In the article "What is Differentiated Instruction?" it was especially helpful for someone looking for resources for using differentiation in their classroom. provided numerous practical links and projects that teachers can use in their classroom. Educators need concrete examples of how to better utilize differentiation in the classroom. I really liked the arrticle, "Incorporating Multisensory Approaches in the Secondary General Education Classroom" ([]) This type of format that use multisensory learning is a great way to encourage teachers to understand the concept of differentiation and introduced it into their classroom.