Effectiveness of Using Differentiated Instruction for Enhancing ESL Learners' Individual Needs

Abstract

The present study intends to explore the use of differentiated instructions in Pakistani ESL classrooms. The concept of differentiation is deliberated as a determinant in quality education whether in theory or practice. As far as the ESL/EFL context is concerned, English being lingua franca holds great significance. Differentiated Instruction provides the solution to the challenges faced in learning a language due to the complexity of a language, and the diversity of the learners. A one-size-fits-all strategy is considered a left-out strategy keeping pedagogical approaches in line with 21st-century skills, there is a dire need to prepare learners for global demands. The study followed an interpretive approach and was qualitative. Six ESL teachers were interviewed to gauge their experience regarding DI. Data was analyzed thematically and it has been analyzed that only some elite schools of Pakistan are practicing DI in their ESL classrooms. Therefore, it is recommended to make arrangements for its implementation on a larger scale in Pakistan.