Hi Kosain,

Thanks for reading and for asking such a thoughtful question. Here’s some input from our DI experts on how quieter students can benefit from unison response:

1. Direct Instruction programs group students homogeneously so that teachers start instruction at the optimal point for every learner. This gives students more confidence to participate and a high probability of success.

2. DI lessons establish rules and expectations for participation early on, and they are reinforced daily. If a teacher has a student or a few students who are quieter, then one of the rules for the group will be to "Talk big” and the teacher will reinforce this rule to the group. For example, if the teacher does not hear a student responding, they would say to the group, "I have to hear everyone. Starting over." In DI lessons, teachers always correct behavior such as non-responding to the group, not to individuals, so they don’t feel isolated.

3. Teachers using DI make sure to teach so that they are in close proximity to students. They might sit their quieter students front and center if the class is seated in a semi-circle, or make sure to walk among students watching and listening for their responses if the group is larger and students are seated in rows.

By grouping students homogeneously, establishing the rules clearly, observing students closely, and reinforcing the rules in a positive manner to the group, teachers using Direct Instruction can shape students' learning behaviors and ensure that they are actively involved in the lessons.

Thank you again for your thoughtful question! Best of luck in your journey to becoming an educator.