Using Technology in a Differentiated Classroom: Strategies and Tools for Designing Engaging, Effective, Efficient & Equitable Learning
By Clare R. Kilbane and Natalie B. Milman
(ASCD, 2024 – Learn more)
Reviewed by Melinda Stewart
Using Technology in a Differentiated Classroom by Clare R. Kilbane and Natalie B. Milman is a well-structured, research-backed guide for educators looking to integrate technology into their differentiated instructional practices.
Throughout the book, the authors emphasize how technology can help create learning experiences that drive student success. The elements they present align with the need to create learning environments where students feel ownership of their learning and where a vision of inclusivity and accessibility guides instructional decisions.
Rather than simply advocating for the latest digital tools, Kilbane and Milman focus on how technology can be used purposefully to meet students’ diverse needs. The principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) resonate throughout the book. The authors suggest technology integration that ensures all students, regardless of their ability, background or learning style, can engage with meaningful learning experiences. Whether connected with the creation of learning products or the process of learning, students can be provided with choice, built-in support and opportunities. The intentional use of technology allows for content, process and product to be personalized based on individual needs.
Using Technology in a Differentiated Classroom provides a comprehensive exploration of how teachers, as designers of learning experiences, can use technology to support or – unfortunately, in some cases – impede the learning process. By thoughtfully applying models like the 4E (Engagement, Effectiveness, Efficiency, and Equity) and SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition), teachers can evaluate how to best incorporate tech tools to enhance differentiation.
This guidance is especially valuable when considering factors like the evolving nature of digital tools and how they align with specific content and pedagogical goals. It encourages educators to be mindful of how technology’s role must evolve to ensure it matches both the medium and the message of the lesson, promoting responsive teaching and closing gaps in foundational knowledge.
Technology and teacher efficiency
Kilbane and Milman pay particular attention to efficiency, addressing the time constraints that teachers face and offering practical solutions to integrate technology without being overwhelming. They provide actionable advice on selecting the right tools, automating administrative tasks, and delivering timely, effective feedback.
Technology is positioned as a way to streamline classroom practices and as a tool for enhancing social-emotional learning of students. By using tech tools pre-, during and post instruction, teachers can provide students with ongoing support, fostering a sense of community, collaboration and self-regulation. Moreover, the authors underscore the importance of a feedback loop that is both just-in-time and actionable, ensuring the students are continually guided toward growth.
The rapidly evolving nature of educational technology means that certain tools and platforms mentioned in the book may become outdated, but the book offers a solid foundation. Teachers will need to supplement the work with ongoing research to stay current with AI and other emerging technologies, but the authors’ core strategies are timeless.
Melinda Stewart has been an educator for 30 years. She has an MA in Teaching, Education and Learning and has done graduate work in the areas of English as a Second Language, Reading, Spanish, and most recently English Language Arts. She is currently working as a Spanish teacher and ELM coach at Fairmont Junior Senior High School. Melinda is an MEA and AFT professional development facilitator and trainer who has a deep passion for learning and equity.
