Free Essays on Homogeneous Grouping

Is homogeneous grouping or heterogeneous grouping best for students? Wynne Harlen of the SCRE Center reviewed research on the effects of grouping pupils and found much ambiguity. In this article he states that research can produce enough evidence to support both types of grouping. He goes on to say this area is very difficult to research because of all the different variables that effect learning . The class size, ability range, teaching methods, materials, the attitude of the teacher towards grouping and the curriculum content are all variables that effect the performance of students. According to Wynne Harlen of the SCRE Center there is something to please everyone-some studies lend support to grouping by ability, some point in the opposite direction and many show that there is little difference that can be ascribed only to the type of grouping. The better question is which grouping best compliments a teacher’s style of teaching? The most effective teaching is when a teacher combines her personal style of teaching with professional knowledge within an environment comfortable for the students and the teacher. Research indicates the range and diversity of results when evaluating particular school environments is impressive. One type of grouping may be quite successful in some schools yet very disappointing in other schools. It appears that content of instruction and instructional strategies implemented by the teacher is the pivot point of learning. A well constructed program that brings students together in a safe learning environment seems to yield tangible results. Just as we should not judge students and label them it is just as important not to judge a teacher’s preference of grouping. Teachers are as different and unique as the students they teach. When given the opportunity to group according to preference teachers are more at ease and more competent in their ability to meet the ... Free Essays on Homogeneous Grouping Free Essays on Homogeneous Grouping Is homogeneous grouping or heterogeneous grouping best for students? Wynne Harlen of the SCRE Center reviewed research on the effects of grouping pupils and found much ambiguity. In this article he states that research can produce enough evidence to support both types of grouping. He goes on to say this area is very difficult to research because of all the different variables that effect learning . The class size, ability range, teaching methods, materials, the attitude of the teacher towards grouping and the curriculum content are all variables that effect the performance of students. According to Wynne Harlen of the SCRE Center there is something to please everyone-some studies lend support to grouping by ability, some point in the opposite direction and many show that there is little difference that can be ascribed only to the type of grouping. The better question is which grouping best compliments a teacher’s style of teaching? The most effective teaching is when a teacher combines her personal style of teaching with professional knowledge within an environment comfortable for the students and the teacher. Research indicates the range and diversity of results when evaluating particular school environments is impressive. One type of grouping may be quite successful in some schools yet very disappointing in other schools. It appears that content of instruction and instructional strategies implemented by the teacher is the pivot point of learning. A well constructed program that brings students together in a safe learning environment seems to yield tangible results. Just as we should not judge students and label them it is just as important not to judge a teacher’s preference of grouping. Teachers are as different and unique as the students they teach. When given the opportunity to group according to preference teachers are more at ease and more competent in their ability to meet the ...