In this article, I share 5 tips for applying differentiated instruction in eLearning. If you’re looking for tips on how to apply differentiated instruction in eLearning, this article is for you!
In designing effective eLearning courses, it’s important to keep in mind that all learners aren't equal. While we all share the same 24 hours in a day, our experiences and knowledge can vary.
As a result, different learners may require varying levels of challenge to achieve optimal learning. For example, when designing an eLearning course for novice learners, present some information in a more basic manner. Also, provide additional details for more advanced learners.
By doing so, you’re meeting the varying needs of your diverse audience. It will also ensure that they’re able to keep as much information as possible. Here are 5 tips for applying differentiated instruction in eLearning:
1. Provide Additional Details for Learners Who Need Them
Rather than assuming that all learners will need the same level of detail presented in the same way, you should customize your approach by providing additional details for those who need them. To do this, you can use:
• Interleaving
An instructional design technique that involves presenting information from different topics or domains within close proximity of each other.
• Asking Questions
An instructional design technique that involves asking learners to respond to questions and providing them with the correct answers, along with the rationale behind those answers.
• Visualization
An instructional design technique that involves using visuals, such as diagrams, illustrations, charts, or graphs to enhance understanding.
2. Provide Learners With More Challenges for Greater Understanding
As you design your eLearning course, think about the information you’re presenting and how it can be applied in a real-world setting. Then, identify ways in which you can provide learners with additional challenges so they can apply their knowledge and skills in a more realistic manner.
To do this, apply challenges that are: Logical (based on clear connections between ideas and information presented in your eLearning course) and Meaningful (based on relevant content within your eLearning course and associated real-world situations).
3. Use Personalized Interactions That Enhance Learning
To personalize interactions in your eLearning course, use simulations and other activities that are relevant to learners’ roles or work environments. You can also use:
• Storyboarding
An instructional design technique that involves creating an outline of a story and filling in the details as you go.
• Web 2.0 Tools
Tools that enable you to include social media interactions, such as blogs, wikis, and podcasts.
4. Encourage Learners to Share Their Thoughts and Ideas
While you’re designing your eLearning course, be sure to include opportunities for learners to share their thoughts and ideas with each other. This will help learners feel more engaged with the content of your eLearning course while also encouraging them to think critically about what they’re learning.
You can do this by using discussion boards, which is an instructional design technique that involves providing a place for learners to share their thoughts and ideas with each other within your eLearning course.
5. Provide Learners With Additional Opportunities for Practice
As you design your eLearning course, consider how you can provide learners with additional opportunities for practice so they can apply what they’ve learned in an authentic manner. To do this:
• Use Self-Paced Learning Modules
An instructional design technique that involves allowing learners to control the pace at which they learn new information.
• Provide Opportunities for Practice
An instructional design technique that involves providing learners with additional opportunities to apply what they’ve learned authentically.
