Ability grouping is defined as the grouping of students according to relative scholastic capabilities in a classroom. This seems to be a debated issue among schools all over America. This particular method of teaching and learning does have its many benefits, but many will disagree with this because they believe it causes more stress and problems to both the teacher and his/her students. One positive aspect of ability grouping is that students who usually have a more difficult time learning a subject will be in a group with other students who are closely compared to their level of learning; they do not feel rushed or hurried to complete a question or assignment like they would if they were grouped with others who are more advanced academically or are quicker to learn. One benefit of the teacher is that when his/her students are placed into groups and have begun working, he/she is able to give attention to those students who may need assistance. This is a great way to spend personal time with students without singling them out, but rather with a small group. However, there are some negative aspects of this type of grouping in a classroom. A teacher must be very cautious of how they label any student or group, and should ALWAYS remain neutral and fair in any situation, but it usually is noticed by all students in a classroom who the "smart group" is or who the "slow group" is. Whether the teacher or other peers are giving these labels, an individual may be more hurt by this type of learning than helped, merely because they do not want to feel inferior to any other student in the class. This is most detrimental, I believe, in early and middle childhood because these years are most vital to social growth and development. For the teacher, this could possibly lead to more stress in the classroom, having to deal with multiple groups at different levels rather than having a unified group to focus on. My personal opinions lead me to believe that ability grouping has many more benefits in a classroom (when done correctly) than detriments, and I know that as a future Intervention Specialist I will be encountering classrooms just like this. Do you think that ability grouping is the best method of learning for students? I would appreciate your input.
