Differentiating+the+Curriculum+&+Personalized+Learning

Differentiated learning is a way of thinking about teaching and learning. It offers a variety of entry points for students who differ in their abilities, knowledge and skills. It also offers different approaches to what students learn (content) how students learn (process) and how students demonstrate what they have learned (product).

At Seabrook Primary School the curriculum is differentiated by using the Western Australian First Steps Developmental Continuum to plot and track students literacy progress and map their future learning. Along with this, the Victorian Essential Learning Standards (VELS) framework determines learning goals and provides a scaffold for students to set learning goals in a metacognative manner. This process compliments Personalised Learning by allowing students to take strong ownership of their learning and to develop skills in self assessment and become increasingly independent with their learning. In a Differentiated Learning model the teacher plays a significant and purposeful role. Teachers diagnose student learning, help students set appropriate goals, monitor student learning and facilitate appropriate learning opportunities. At times the teacher will conduct whole class lessons as well as small group lessons and individualised coaching.

By setting goals regularly, students in consultation with the classroom teacher take control of their learning, decide what they want to accomplish and then move in a step-by-step manner towards achieving these goals. In a Differentiated classroom the learning aim is to assist students to be more self directed, confident and competent learners. It is important to note the teacher provides continuous support.