Abstract
This study examined the extent of implementation of Differentiated Instruction (DI) in Physical Education (PE) classes in selected schools in Cagayan, Philippines. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected from 464 respondents, including students, PE teachers, and administrators. Findings revealed that DI strategies, such as content adaptation, varied instructional approaches, and differentiated assessments, were widely employed. However, discrepancies in perceptions were noted, with teachers and administrators reporting higher implementation levels than students. Key challenges included limited resources, insufficient training, and time constraints. The study concludes that while DI enhances student engagement and inclusivity, improvements in teacher support, resource allocation, and student awareness are needed for optimal implementation.References
Benitez, M., Hananiban, R., Deloso, M., & Tantog, I. (2025). Towards inclusive physical education: Assessing the readiness of PE teachers in the Philippines. Journal of Academic Research, 9(1), 60–74.
Block, M. E., & Obrusnikova, I. (2007). Inclusion in physical education: A review of the literature from 1995–2005. Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly, 24(2), 103–124.
Colquitt, G., Pritchard, T., Johnson, C., & McCollum, S. (2017). Differentiating instruction in physical education: Personalization of learning. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, 88(7), 44–50.
Culajara, C. J. (2024). Physical education teachers’ strategies and challenges in instructional delivery in the post-pandemic era. International Journal of Social Learning, 4(2), 142–156.
Danzi, J., Reul, K., & Smith, R. (2008). Improving student motivation in mixed-ability classrooms using differentiated instruction. ERIC. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED500838
Department of Education. (2016). Policy guidelines on the implementation of the senior high school (SHS) program (DepEd Order No. 35, s. 2016).
Diaz, M., & Andal, E. (2024). Differentiated instruction in physical education and students’ engagement in dance activities. [Journal title not specified], 1164–1174.
Fredricks, J. A., Blumenfeld, P. C., & Paris, A. H. (2004). School engagement: Potential of the concept, state of the evidence. Review of Educational Research, 74(1), 59–109.
Gardner, H. (1983). Frames of mind: The theory of multiple intelligences. Basic Books.
Hall, T., Strangman, N., & Meyer, A. (2003). Differentiated instruction and implications for universal design for learning implementation. National Center on Accessing the General Curriculum.
Magableh, I. S. I., & Abdullah, A. (2020). On the effectiveness of differentiated instruction in the enhancement of Jordanian students’ overall achievement. International Journal of Instruction, 13(2), 533–548.
Onyishi, C. N., & Sefotho, M. (2020). Teachers’ perspectives on the use of differentiated instruction in inclusive classrooms: Implication for teacher education. International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 9(6), 137–146.
Rabaya, R. R., Ponce, N. D., & Suguis, J. E. (2024). Unlocking potential: Multiple case studies of college students with special needs in physical education. European Journal of Physical Education and Sport Science, 11(5), 105–120.
Republic Act No. 9442. (2007). An act amending Republic Act No. 7277, otherwise known as the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, and for other purposes.
Smale-Jacobse, A. E., Meijer, A., Helms-Lorenz, M., & Maulana, R. (2019). Differentiated instruction in secondary education: A systematic review of research evidence. Frontiers in Psychology, 10, Article 2366. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02366
Struyven, K., Gheyssens, E., & Griful-Freixenet, J. (2019). Differentiated instruction in teaching and teacher education: The DI-Quest model. In Encyclopedia of teacher education (pp. 1–7). Springer.
Suprayogi, M. N., & Valcke, M. (2016). Differentiated instruction in primary schools: Implementation and challenges in Indonesia. PONTE International Scientific Research Journal, 72(6).
Tomlinson, C. A. (2001). How to differentiate instruction in mixed-ability classrooms (2nd ed.). Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.
Tomlinson, C. A. (2003). Deciding to teach them all. Educational Leadership, 61(2), 6–11.
van Munster, M. A., Lieberman, L. J., & Grenier, M. A. (2019). Universal design for learning and differentiated instruction in physical education. Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly, 36(3), 359–377.
Williams, J. (2001). Adaptations and accommodations for students with disabilities (pp. 7–12). University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

