Effect of Differentiated Instruction on the Achievement and Development of Critical Thinking Skills among Sixth-Grade Science Students

Abstract

The objective of this study was to explore the effect of using a differentiated instruction method on the achievement and development of critical thinking skills among sixth-grade students in Abha, Saudi Arabia. The study used the experimental method through the application of the instructional program on a sample of 50 students, who were chosen purposefully from one school in Abha city. The sample was divided into an experimental group (n = 25), which received instructions using differentiated instruction, and a control group (n = 25), which received instructions using conventional methods. Two tests were developed, an academic achievement test and a critical thinking test, to measure the performance of students before and after using the instructional program. Findings showed an improvement in the academic performance of the experimental group, which were taught using the instructional program based on differentiated instruction. Participants were able to increase their level of critical thinking skills in science. The study recommends using this instructional strategy in different school subjects other than science. The study also recommends training teachers on its implementation in classrooms.