Differensiasi Kurikulum sebagai Strategi Pembelajaran Efektif bagi Anak Cerdas dan Berbakat Istimewa di Kelas Inklusi

Abstract

An inclusive education structure that prioritizes equitable access and participation without discrimination, gifted and talented children (GTC) are often overlooked by the system due to the dominance of a homogenized curriculum not designed to address their unique needs. GTC possess complex learning profiles, characterized by high intellectual capacity, rapid knowledge acquisition, and intense interests and creativity that exceed the average. The mismatch between conventional teaching approaches and the distinctive needs of GTC in inclusive environments creates serious pedagogical challenges, notably the hindered realization of their full potential. This article aims to critically examine the effectiveness of differentiated instruction as an adaptive curriculum strategy in addressing the diverse needs of GTC within inclusive classrooms. Through a systematic literature review, the differentiation approach is analyzed within the framework of modifying content, process, and product of learning based on students' readiness, interests, and cognitive profiles. The findings indicate that the implementation of differentiation significantly enhances intrinsic motivation, active engagement, and academic achievement of GTC, while maintaining social cohesion in the classroom. Differentiated instruction also contributes to the creation of an inclusive, dynamic, and pedagogically equitable learning environment. The novelty of this study lies in the conceptual integration of differentiation principles with inclusive practices as a foundation for curriculum design that emphasizes individual excellence and appreciation of diversity. These findings offer substantive contributions to the development of a more transformative and responsive pedagogical paradigm, while also providing both theoretical and practical foundations for educators in designing curriculum interventions that empower all learners, including those with exceptional capacities.