Individualized Instruction - Hannah White

Individualized Instruction

Hannah White

What is Individualized Instruction?

Individualized instruction is a type of teaching that allows students to learn at their own pace while using their own methods.  This type of instruction falls under the constructivist theory of education.  The goal of individualized instruction is for every student to be able to work and learn at their own pace.  One way to better understand this type of instruction is in Special Education classes.  Each child that is enrolled in a Special Education class is required to have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) in order to track their progress.

Theoretical School of Individualized Instruction:

Individualized Instruction is a part of the constructivist theory.  This theory “states that learning is an active, contextualized process of constructing knowledge rather than acquiring it” (Constructivism - Learning Theories, 2015).  Knowledge is individualized, as it is based on personal experiences and the environment surrounding the learner.

For more information on Constructivism, visit:

http://www.learning-theories.com/constructivism.html

There are five steps to Individualization

1.     Set clear and specific goals

2.     Make goals challenging and realistic

3.     Make goals dynamic and review regularly

4.     Let students own their progress

5.     Involve parents

Each learner processes information and material at different speeds.  Some states are requiring every student to have an ILP, individual learning plan.  “Research indicates that students benefit from having individualized learning plans when introduced in middle school and frequently revisited until high school graduation” (Individualized Learning – DreamBox Learning, 2016).  Technology is a great help with individualized instruction, as it goes at the students pace.

For more information on Individualized Learning Plans, visit http://www.dreambox.com/individualized-learning

References

Constructivism - Learning Theories. (2015). Learning Theories. Retrieved 12 June 2016, from http://www.learning-theories.com/constructivism.html

Individualized Instruction. (2015). National Dropout Prevention Center. Retrieved 12 June 2016, from http://dropoutprevention.org/effective-strategies/individualized-instruction/

Individualized Learning - DreamBox Learning. (2016). DreamBox Learning. Retrieved 12 June 2016, from http://www.dreambox.com/individualized-learning