Tailoring STEM Instruction for Diverse Learners: What Matters Most?

Abstract

This presentation focused on defining a three-tiered transformative approach to differentiating instruction for diverse learners, which includes changing the organization of classrooms, improving the quality of learning activities, and creating a culture of recognition that respects all learners. Using supporting evidence from instructional coaching studies, this paper identifies challenges facing STEM teachers at each tier of differentiation. While coached elementary and secondary teachers make significant gains in implementing this approach to differentiation, STEM teachers, in particular, make significantly less growth and less consistent growth. Implications for increasing STEM teachers’ knowledge and skills for differentiating instruction for diverse learners are addressed.