International Journal of Academic Pedagogical Research (IJAPR)
  Year: 2024 | Volume: 8 | Issue: 4 | Page No.: 126-138
Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) as a Potential Solution for Improving Middle School Education: A Systematic Review of the Literature Download PDF
Irfan Ananda Ismail, Qadriati, Fadhila Ulfa Jhora, Arvini Yorianda

Abstract:
Ensuring quality education at the middle school level is pivotal in fostering students' academic success and personal growth. However, many educational systems grapple with the challenge of delivering effective and tailored instruction to students with diverse learning needs and abilities. A significant issue in middle school education is the persistent achievement gap between students, often exacerbated by socioeconomic status, language barriers, and learning disabilities. Traditional "one-size-fits-all" teaching approaches frequently fail to address these disparities, leaving some students struggling to keep up while others remain unchallenged. Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) has emerged as a promising pedagogical approach to address the educational challenges faced in middle schools. This methodology emphasizes tailoring instruction to students' current learning levels rather than relying solely on age-based or grade-level curricula. By assessing students' proficiency and grouping them according to their competency levels, TaRL aims to provide targeted instruction that meets each student's unique needs. The implementation of TaRL involves several key steps: (1) conducting periodic assessments to determine students' current learning levels, (2) reorganizing classrooms into temporary, skill-based groups, and (3) delivering targeted instruction using appropriate learning materials and teaching strategies. Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of TaRL in improving student achievement, particularly among low-performing and disadvantaged students. By addressing the diverse needs of middle school students through personalized instruction, TaRL holds promise as a transformative approach to narrowing achievement gaps and ensuring equitable access to quality education. As educational systems strive to enhance their pedagogical practices, TaRL presents a compelling solution for fostering inclusive and effective learning environments, empowering every student to reach their full potential.