Empowering Every Learner: Dynamic Differentiation and Embracing Diversity in the Classroom w/ Beth Puma

In this episode, Beth Puma unpacks the art and science of differentiation, debunking common misconceptions that make it seem overwhelming. She reframes differentiation as a design challenge—an opportunity for educators to anticipate patterns and craft inclusive learning experiences. Beth dives into practical strategies that go beyond the myth of "27 different folders for 27 different students," emphasizing approaches like flexible groupings, choice boards, and student-driven reflection.

A key focus of the conversation is multilingual learners and how differentiation supports their diverse backgrounds, prior knowledge, and linguistic repertoires. Beth shares insights on designing equitable multilingual ecosystems that foster engagement, identity, and agency. The discussion also explores the intersection of differentiation and equity, highlighting the power of translanguaging and culturally responsive teaching.

Whether you're a classroom teacher, curriculum designer, or school leader, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for creating learning environments that honor student voice, choice, and growth. Tune in to shift your perspective on differentiation and walk away with tools to make your teaching more dynamic and impactful.

Timestamps

• [01:30]  The Myth of Differentiation: 27 Different Folders

• [03:10] Differentiation as a Design Problem

• [05:30] Celebrating the Rich Experiences of Our MLLs

• [06:40]  Translanguaging as Differentiation

• [08:15] Designing Equitable Multilingual Ecosystems as an MLL Specialist

• [13:24]  Intersection of Differentiation and UDL

• [14:33] Putting Teachers’ Needs First in the Design Cycle

• [16:36]  Beth’s Current Curiosities

• [18:45]  AI, Resource Curation & What’s Next

• [21:10] Designing for Discourse & MLLs

• [22:20] Beth Puma’s Webinar with ISS EDULearn

• [23:50] How to Reach Out to Beth

Notable Quotes

• “Because I think this is where differentiation gets a bad rap..Right? When you say the word differentiation it brings up all kinds of feelings. 27 different folders, with 27 different things to do..[...] That's what gives teachers anxiety. And so I'll be debunking that conception right? I see differentiation as a design opportunity.”

• “Right? So when kids' needs are met, they feel love, they feel safe. They're risk takers.”

• “[...] differentiation isn't just about skills. It's about, like, what sparks you as a learner, too. So, it's a design question; it's a complex one, but it gets easier with practice.”

• “A differentiated classroom is not highly controlled - it's a highly designed and strategic classroom. And we trust the learners in their process. And that's where we let layer on that reflection, that agency work.”

• “But how do you have a depth of exploration that's rich and conceptual, and meet the needs and address needs across such a large spectrum of children?”

  
  

Let’s Connect

Connect With Beth Puma

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethpuma/

Website: https://www.bethpumaconsulting.com/

More Resources

• A blog post, 3 Learner-Centered Movements I am Excited to See Grow in 2024, highlights the shift toward personalized, learner-centered education. 

• The academic article, The Effects of Differentiated Instruction on