In the two years since Differentiated Learning (DL) was introduced at her school, nine-year-old Janette Achaab has blossomed into a more confident student. The initiative, according to Janette, has transformed her outlook on learning and personal interactions. “My teachers have taught me to be confident and not be afraid around others because we are all the same,” she shares. She eagerly looks forward to school each day, excited by the new experiences awaiting her.
Janette attends Azenab Girls Primary School in Sandema, located in the Upper East region of Ghana. Already excelling academically, she faced no challenges in her studies before DL was introduced. However, DL placed her in level three, a group with girls of different ages and varying abilities who are able to read paragraphs of text and stories. Rather than feeling intimidated, Janette embraced the challenge, which boosted her confidence and sharpened her determination to excel.
In the classroom, Janette’s enthusiasm is evident. During an English lesson, she eagerly raises her hand to answer questions, often more readily than her peers. Her reading skills stand out, and her social skills are equally impressive, especially for someone so young.
What is Differentiated Learning?
Differentiated Learning is an educational approach that tailors instruction to meet the unique needs of each student, based on ability rather than age or grade level. In Janette’s school, students from grades 2-6 with similar abilities are grouped together for one hour a day. This method encourages students like Janette to think critically and solve problems in ways that make sense to them, whether in math or hands-on activities. The shift in pedagogy has positively impacted the school environment. Lessons are delivered using learner-centered pedagogy, play-based techniques, and teachers incorporate games, songs, and a variety of low-cost teaching and learning resources to complement the teaching.
Celestina Aninaanya, the headmistress of Azenab Girls Primary School, believes that Differentiated Learning has been a game-changer.
“Whenever we attend reading competitions, we consistently place among the top performers,” she proudly shares. Celestina attributes this success to the support from caregivers and the dedication of teachers, who applied the skills and rubrics of the DL they learned during DL training to enhance teaching and learning.
The school is part of a pilot initiative called Communities of Excellence, launched by UNICEF with funding support from the Jacobs Foundation and in partnership with the Ghana Education Service. This initiative promotes quality education for all children, with a strong focus on community involvement and participation in the education delivery. Community sensitization efforts have been successful, and as a result, parents, guardians, and caregivers and all community members have embraced the program. “Today, we are reaping the benefits of the pilot, and the children are the ones who benefit the most,” Celestina says joyfully.
A Bright Future for Janette
Janette aspires to be a doctor, driven by a desire to help sick and injured people. Her favorite subjects are mathematics and science, though she’s particularly fond of science because it deepens her understanding of the environment and nature. Janette is passionate about protecting nature and is especially concerned about pollution.
I’m doing my part to protect the environment. I sweep my surroundings at home and school.
It’s clear that Janette enjoys her time in school. During the Differentiated Learning period, she forms new friendships and especially looks forward to reading. DL has not only enhanced her academic abilities but has also nurtured her sense of responsibility and concern for the world around her. As Differentiated Learning is further scaled to more schools in Ghana, there will be many more Janettes on a journey towards getting the kind of quality education they each deserve, a future that ensures that they reach their full potential.
