Differentiated Instruction and Complex Instruction: Intersections and Differences to Teaching and Learning in Heterogeneous Classrooms

Session Submission Type: Symposium

Abstract

Teaching classes that are heterogeneous by skill, interest and background is a challenge. Differentiated Instruction is an instructional method reaching thousands of teachers through books and workshops. Complex Instruction is an instructional method designed to eliminate unequal interactions as students engage in rigorous groupwork. Many teachers who write Complex Instruction lesson plans state that they “differentiate instruction.” Conversely, the founder of Differentiated Instruction has stated that she uses “complex instruction as a key strategy.” What do the terms “Complex Instruction” and “Differentiated Instruction” mean? What are the intersections as well as the differences? Hear founding members of these two frameworks define the approaches. Then engage in discussion about assessment, products and managing a heterogeneous class, across the two frameworks, and beyond.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Tracking and Detracking

Chair

• Beth C. Rubin, Rutgers University

Papers

• Mastering Content and Developing Language in Heterogeneous Classrooms - Rachel A. Lotan, Stanford University

• The meaning of “curriculum differentiation” in detracked math and science classrooms - Maika Watanabe, San Francisco State University

• Leadership for School-Wide Differentiation - Carol A. Tomlinson, University of Virginia