Tips and tools to effectively differentiate student engagement learning

Important points:

As a professional for over 3 years and going into my 5th year as a certified special education teacher, I have learned that no two students are ever the same. Each student brings unique strengths, challenges, and ways of processing the world around them. Each student has his own learning style and rate.

That’s why differentiation isn’t just an instructional strategy—it’s the heart of student engagement and student success. When students hear that lessons are designed to themthey become confident, motivated, and curious learners.

Research supports this, too. Research shows that differentiated instruction can significantly increase student engagement and achievement, especially when supported by digital tools that allow for flexibility and personalization. Thankfully, today’s technology makes it easier than ever to meet students where they are, while aligning instruction with the national grade-level curriculum.

Below are two tools that have changed the way I differentiate instruction in my classroom and help my students feel successful every day.

Personal practice of art

One of my go-to resources for differentiation is IXL, a digital platform that provides personalized skills practice across all subject areas. I like that IXL adapts to each student’s learning level, meets them where they are and builds from there.

For example, in math, my students may all be working on problem solving, but IXL combines the level of difficulty and types of problems based on their individual performance. Some may start with basic word problems, while others are ready to think in multiple steps. Instant feedback helps students self-correct and celebrate their progress in real time.

IXL also helps me as a teacher. Diagnostic tools identify skill gaps and strengths, which gives me insight into how to group students for small group instruction or tailor future courses. It works: Students feel empowered to grow, and I have data-driven insights that make planning more intentional.

Inclusive Resources for All Students

Another tool I rely on every day is the Discovery Education Experience. This companion group is full of interactive lessons, quizzes, videos, virtual field trips, activities, and much more that make learning come alive for my students.

I use the Discovery Education Experience to differentiate my instruction based on TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) standards that we need to teach, but with flexibility to meet the needs of each student. I can easily find many resources that support both teacher planning and student learning, all in one place. For example, when teaching reading comprehension, I might assign a short video for visual learners, a guided reading passage for independent practice, and interactive quizzes for students who thrive on technology.

The best part? It allows me to combine digital and print options. Some students work best completing printed assignments, while others enjoy interactive online courses. That flexibility means that every student has access to the learning experience, regardless of ability level.

Insider tips for professional divorce

Over the years, I’ve learned that divorcing doesn’t have to be difficult—it just needs to be intentional. Here are a few tips to help make it manageable and meaningful:

• Start small: Pick one lesson or one tool to isolate and build from there.
• Use the data as your guide: Platforms like IXL and Discovery Education Experience make it easy to see where students need support or enrichment.
• Offer to choose: Let students decide how to show you what they’ve learned—by writing, drawing, making a slide, or recording a short video.
• Combined printing and digital: Not every student is successful on screen; mixing methods keeps engagement high.
• Add positive reinforcement: Celebrate progress often, even in small steps. Stickers, praise, raffles, and/or printable certificates can encourage students to keep working toward their goals. Seeing effort builds confidence and encourages persistence, especially for students who may struggle emotionally and academically. I also have students track their progress in their interactive journals to encourage and celebrate their successes. The progress tracker keeps students accountable and continues to engage them to work toward their academic goals.

Differentiation is about giving every student what they need to succeed. Teachers can create classrooms that are not only inclusive but also engaging and empowering.

Every day, I am reminded that when we meet students at their level and celebrate their progress, we help them find their love of learning. That’s what makes teaching so rewarding, and technology can be one of your best partners in making that happen.