SELL (Scope of English Language Teaching, Linguistics, and Literature) Journal
Vol. 11 No. 2 (2026): SELL Journal

The Implementation of Differentiated Instruction by Certified Teacher Leaders Across Educational Tiers: A Qualitative Case Study

Ana Christanti (Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Sidoarjo)
Ryan Purnomo (Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Sidoarjo)



Article Info

Publish Date
26 Aug 2026

Abstract

This qualitative case study investigates how certified teacher leaders (Guru Penggerak) execute Differentiated Instruction (DI) across distinct educational tiers, from kindergarten to senior high school, in Sidoarjo, East Java. Utilizing classroom observations and post-observation interviews with four educators across public and private institutions, this research evaluates teacher perceptions and the practical application of content, process, and product differentiation. The empirical findings reveal a persistent disconnect between pedagogical awareness and actual classroom execution. Although participants expressed positive attitudes toward DI as a catalyst for student engagement, their ability to apply content differentiation varied substantially across developmental stages. Early childhood educators experienced structural barriers in adapting learning content due to young learners' dependence on direct teacher instruction. In contrast, primary and secondary teachers implemented process and product differentiation more fluently by tapping into students' growing capacity for self-directed learning, though outcomes remained tied to teacher creativity. These insights highlight the need for level-specific professional development to refine differentiation practices within evolving competency-based curricula.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

SL

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Social Sciences Other

Description

SELL journal seek multidisciplinary contribution from the lecturers, researchers, students, and also all the practitioners in the field of English language teaching, linguistics, and literature. There are several sub-themes (but not limited to): 1. The development of technology in language teaching ...