Differensoinnin

Differensoinnin, commonly translated as differentiation, is a term used across disciplines to describe the process by which distinctions are made or how entities become distinct. In Finnish usage the noun "differensointi" and its inflected forms, such as "differensoinnin," cover several related ideas, including mathematical differentiation, cellular differentiation, instructional differentiation, and product differentiation.

In mathematics, differentiation refers to the process of determining a function's derivative, which measures the instantaneous rate of change and the slope of the tangent line. The derivative is denoted d/dx or f'(x). Basic rules such as the power rule, chain rule, and product rule allow calculation of derivatives; limits underlie the concept and connect differentiation to the broader framework of calculus.

In biology, cellular differentiation describes how unspecialized cells develop into distinct cell types, enabling tissues and organs to form. This process involves regulation of gene expression, signaling pathways, and epigenetic mechanisms, and is central to development, growth, and tissue repair.

In education, differentiated instruction adapts content, process, and assessment to different learners' readiness, interests, and learning profiles. Practices include pre-assessments, flexible grouping, varied task formats, and multiple means of representation and expression to support all students.

In business and marketing, product differentiation refers to creating contrast between products or brands to attract a particular market segment. Differentiation strategies may focus on features, quality, design, branding, or customer service, with the aim of achieving competitive advantage and reducing price-based competition.