Differentiated instruction in a Seventh-day Adventist primary Sabbath school classroom : a mixed methods action research study

Daniels, Melissa C. This mixed methods action research (MMAR) study explored the experiences and perceptions of both the teacher and students regarding differentiated instruction (DI) in a children's Sabbath school classroom at a Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) church in the Midwestern United States. Guided by Tomlinson's DI framework, the study focused on two main research questions: (1) What impact does the implementation of DI have on a children's Sabbath school classroom? and (2) What are student and teacher perceptions of DI in the Sabbath school classroom? The eight-week investigation employed two action research cycles with five consistent participants, using structured analysis of survey responses, open-ended questionnaires, and student assessments. Systematic comparison across both action research cycles revealed significant improvements in student performance and engagement. Post-protocol surveys showed unanimous highest ratings (4 - Almost Always) for Bible lesson comprehension, meaningful spiritual connection, participation in activities, and overall Sabbath school enjoyment. Student assessments demonstrated substantial growth, with three students achieving 20% performance increases between midpoint and final assessments. Error rates decreased dramatically in key areas, with both vocabulary comprehension and application question errors reduced by 67%. Both the teacher and students reported favorable perceptions of DI implementation across various dimensions, including process, content, product, and learning environment. These findings demonstrate that evidence-based strategies effectively met diverse learning needs while connecting biblical content to students' spiritual lives. This study fills a notable gap in literature on instructional practices in religious education, showing that differentiated instruction enhances both engagement and learning outcomes in Sabbath school settings.

Grantor dc:publisher

Alverno College

Year dc:date

2025

Author dc:creator

• Daniels, Melissa C.

• Seventh-Day Adventists
• Individualized instruction
• Sabbath schools
• Religious education
• Differentiated instruction
• Kagan Cooperative Learning Structures
• Mixed methods action research

Statement dc:rights

• These materials may be used by individuals and libraries for personal use, research, teaching (including distribution to classes), or for any fair use as defined by U.S. Copyright Law.

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

https://alverno.omeka.net/items/show/988

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:alverno.omeka.net:988