The practice of dividing learners according to their perceived abilities. Learners are placed on a particular track or stream (e.g. general, vocational, remedial) and given a curriculum that varies according to their perceived abilities and future positions in life. At the primary level, the practice is often called grouping. Advocates argue that it makes instruction more efficient and provides learners with instruction adapted to their abilities and previous knowledge. Critics argue that it deprives learners of equal opportunity, unfairly and inaccurately labels some learners, and perpetuates inequalities.
(Adapted from: ASCD).
