DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTION IMPLEMENTATION IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS DEVELOPMENT COURSES: PERSPECTIVES FROM LECTURERS AND STUDENTS AT HANOI NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION

Abstract

This study explores the implementation of differentiated instruction (DI) in language skills development courses for English majors at Hanoi National University of Education (HNUE). The study adopted a mixed-methods approach, collecting quantitative data through questionnaires with 207 students and 18 lecturers, and qualitative data through classroom observations and semi-structured interviews with selected lecturers. The findings demonstrate that lecturers and students generally perceived DI as necessary; however, its implementation was uneven. In addition, DI implementation was limited to content and process differentiation, while product and learning environment differentiation were less evident. The findings also identify a number of factors that influenced the implementation of DI, including large class sizes, limited lesson duration, rigorous curriculum, learner diversity and other teacher-related factors. The study suggests that a clearer insight into the concept and greater support from the university are required to enhance DI implementation in university English classrooms.