Differentiation: Past and Future

Differentiation is understanding that every learner a differnt background of knowledge and experience, interest and readiness, and reacts differently. some students display gifted characteristics and have unique learning style.
While the content to be taught remains the same, the approaches to it differ and vary according to the learners' need.
I have been using various strategies for differentiation in the classroom. Word limit, listing the key words instead of a writing a paragraph,  drawing mind maps, being the expert, teaching the whole class, effective questioning,worksheets etc, etc......
I would like to try more active learning strategies such as group work, pair work and tiered assignments.
These may differ as per the learners need and interest. Reserach and mini presentations might also help the gifted learners.