Understanding the differences between Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) and differentiation in lessons can allow special educators to work with their students effectively.
So, what are the differences between SDI and differentiation, and what do they mean for special education students?
Understanding SDI
Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) is an educational approach that focuses on individualizing the curriculum to meet the special needs of students.
This approach involves tailoring instruction based on a student’s strengths and weaknesses, learning style, and interests to provide an optimal learning experience for every student. It also strives to create a safe and supportive environment where all learners can thrive.
SDI utilizes various methods such as simplified language, modifications of content expectations, visual aids, manipulatives, the use of technology, and more. By providing strategies tailored specifically to each learner’s needs, SDI can help improve access to the general curriculum while helping them make progress toward their goals.
Understanding Differentiation
Differentiation is an instructional strategy that allows educators to modify their instruction to meet the needs of all of the students in their classroom.
This approach involves adjusting content, the process, end products, and the learning environment based on the student’s ability level, interests, and learning style.
For example, a teacher might use different activities that target various skill levels or provide multiple entry points for understanding material. Differentiation also includes providing explicit instruction when needed or allowing students to work at their own pace through self-directed learning activities.
By considering each student’s unique strengths and weaknesses, differentiation can help ensure that all learners have access to the same high-quality educational content. At the same time, they feel supported and valued in their educational experience.
Main Differences Between SDI and Differentiation
Differences in Focus
The first main difference between Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) and differentiation is that the former focuses on individualizing a curriculum to meet the needs of those with special education needs. The latter involves adjusting instruction for all students in a classroom.
For example, an SDI approach would provide specific strategies tailored toward an individual student’s strengths and weaknesses, while differentiation might involve modifying general content expectations or providing different methods for understanding the material.
Differences in Intensity
Second, SDI is more intensive than differentiation as it not only provides simplified language but may also use visual aids, manipulatives, technology, and other methods to create an optimal learning experience.
Differentiation typically involves adjusting the method of instruction and/or learning environment based on students’ ability levels.
Differences in Goals
Finally, the goals of SDI are to help special education students make meaningful progress toward their educational goals while providing a safe and supportive environment for them to thrive in. On the other hand, differentiation aims to ensure equal access to high-quality educational content and create a relatively equal learning experience for all students. Ultimately, both approaches can be used to help special education students reach their full potential.
Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) and differentiation are two approaches to instruction that can help special education students reach their full potential. Whereas SDI focuses on providing individualized strategies tailored toward a student’s strengths and weaknesses, differentiation involves modifying content based on the student’s ability, present levels, and learning styles.
Long Story Short…
While differentiation adjusts instruction for all students in a classroom, SDI is distinct:
- It is designed and delivered only by a special education teacher or other related service providers (e.g., OT, SLP).
- It targets the specific, documented needs of a student outlined in their IEP.
General education teachers and paraprofessionals can support SDI but cannot provide it.
Both methods can work together to provide an optimal learning experience for every student while helping them make meaningful progress toward their educational goals. With these approaches in place, special education students have a better chance of succeeding in the classroom and beyond.
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