Issue 27(1)

Differentiated Instructional Strategies: One Size Doesn't Fill All. (2006)  Gayle H. Gregory & Carolyn Chapman, Corwin Press (SAGE Publications). 208 pp., $32.95, (paperback), ISBN # 1412936408.

Review by: Denise Heidebrink

Academic Advisor

University Center, South Dakota Public Universities and Research Center

This book is a very in-depth analysis of teaching approaches that emphasize the need to reach more students through varied learning styles. It points out the often forgot concept that "one size does not fit all" when it comes to teaching.

 

The reader can easily pick and choose chapters of interest, as the text does not necessarily build on the previous chapter's content. Of particular interest for advising is the chapter reviewing Gardner 's theory of multiple intelligence. This chapter contains a great checklist to help students identify their strengths; an advisor could utilize these results with the student when discussing possible major/career options.

 

Another helpful advising tool is a questionnaire entitled "How do you like to learn?"  It could be especially helpful with an advisee who needs help with study skills.  For example, the questionnaire asks "If you have an assignment due in two weeks, how do you plan to complete it?" p.27. This would be a great question to spark a conversation about time management skills especially for advising a nontraditional student who has been out of school for several years.

 

Although the book is well written, it is very much geared for an elementary school teacher.  The reader within higher education must pick and choose chapters of relevance to the college setting.  Of particular strength however is the emphasis on honoring diversity in learning styles.