Differentiated teaching is recognizing that individuals have different abilities that result in different needs to learn (Stansberry, n.d.). Differentiated teaching and learning is something that is important to keep in mind when constructing a course and its materials. Without this reflection and effort to make a class more accessible, many will be left behind.

(Education Week, 2018).

The “Traditional Classroom”

Since the transition to online learning, most classes have been held online and over Zoom. At these meetings, typically all participants and instructors have their cameras off while the materials are presented. These lectures lack peer-peer engagement and are typically a one-sided conversation by the professor (that is not supported by audio captioning). As a result, students may struggle to pay attention or even be able to gain any teachings. 

A Change for the Better

There are many considerations and changes that can be made to make the online classroom a more accessible and friendly place. First, professors can begin by turning their camera’s on and requiring all students to do the same. This will allow students who may struggle to hear the ability to read lips and facial expressions. Further, turning on closed captioning is a small action, but could greatly benefit many. The course delivery should also be changed to involve more peer engagement through inclusive activities. This way, students are able to socially connect as well as reduce the possibility of distraction. By even making these small changes to the “traditional classroom” setting, we can begin to make lectures more inclusive for all. 

How Inclusivity Fosters Student Engagement | Today's Learner | Cengage
Figure 1. Differentiated Learning and the Inclusive Classroom (Alder, n.d.).

References

Alder, E. (n.d.). How Inclusitivity Promotes Student Engagement. Retrieved from https://todayslearner.cengage.com/how-inclusivity-promotes-student-engagement/

Education Week. (2018, September 11). Differentiation Instruction: It’s Not as Hard as You Think. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7-D3gi2lL8

Stansberry, S. (n.d.). Differentiated Learning with Educational Technology. In Applications of Educational Technology. Oklahoma State University Libraries. Retrieved March 13, 2021, from https://open.library.okstate.edu/applicationsofeducationaltechnology/chapter/chapter-2-differentiated-learning-with-educational-technology/