What is a Differentiated Classroom?

Just as important as the actual delivery of a lesson plan is, so is the classroom environment. Teachers usually do not think about setting up a class that will support the learning styles of all students. Sometimes we get in the habit of only doing things the way we would benefit from, but we need to start thinking more critically about the reasoning behind why we make certain classroom environment decisions. It sounds silly, but students are more engaged and stay more on-task in stimulating differentiated classroom than the typical classroom. Although there is not a lot of research on the effectiveness of one classroom set-up to another, I did encounter some interesting research that supports certain elements of a differentiated classroom. 

One of the most important variables I came across is the classroom structure. I gathered the purposes that the authors of the studies meant when they say classroom structure:

• The arrangement of furniture
• The establishment of learning centers
• The arrangement of instructional computers and other devices
• Behavior management/interventions used
• The instructional grouping patters for students
• Labeled areas
• Designated areas for learning centers, independent work, and group work
• Library with reading levels labeled
• Visuals 
• Desk arrangement so all students can see the front of the room - or where the main instruction is taken place

In one study by Caroline Guardino and Elizabeth Fullerton, Changing Behaviors by Changing the Classroom Environment, it was found that modifying the classroom environment in areas that are causing negative behaviors can increase on-task behaviors and engagement for students! In fact, the authors found that prior to changing the environment, the classroom in the study had an average of 3% of the students engaged in a given period. After discussion with the classroom teacher, they identified the areas of the classroom that were causing the most problems. So, they decided to change the environment in the following ways: 

• Provide pocket organizers on the back of each chair for the students' materials
• Face the computers away from the students - face the back of the wall
• Label the library and other learning centers
• Clearly identifiable areas for independent and group work

The authors observed the classroom behavior for the next four weeks and on-task behavior increased to 45%! All they did was assess areas of concern in the classroom environment and make small changes. That is why you should always assess your own classroom arrangements to make evidence-based decisions on modifying your classroom to meet the needs of your diverse students. 

Check back at the beginning of each month to read the newest Differentiated Classroom Tip of the Month!