Your weekly source of learner-centered inspiration
Dear Educator,
Agency is a desired outcome for many learner-centered educators and schools. Agency is, by definition, the power to act. However, this doesn’t have to be misconstrued as a free for all. We all operate within constraints, but we don’t have to all do things the same way to reach our intended learning targets and goals. Educators have certain expectations they are accountable for when teaching, and there is a variety of content and skills we want our students to learn. However, there are many ways to achieve these outcomes.
For this week’s Bright Spot, I want to share a strategy that provides young people opportunities to develop agency and build upon their strengths and interests– and it helps teachers, too!
With Gratitude, Katie
I'd love to hear from you! Reply to this email to share your Bright Spot this week!
BRIGHT SPOT OF THE WEEK
Class Jobs: Creating a Sense of Ownership
As a teacher, I loved assigning jobs in the classroom. I created a list, and students applied for the ones they were interested in. I tried my best to match the students to their desired jobs, and they typically got one of their top 3 choices. Class jobs created a sense of ownership for the students and empowered them to take on responsibilities that made the classroom learning community function.
Students had jobs like classroom photographer, greeter (for guests), birthday celebrator, and historian. We even had a poetry reader that would kick-off class for us–this was a saving grace! Students took great pride and ownership in their own jobs and responded positively to the jobs of their peers. And thanks to our poetry reader I never had to quiet the class—even upon returning from lunch!
In a remote or hybrid setting, there are many different yet equally important jobs, such as: leading connector activities to start class, taking attendance, managing the chat, or checking in on friends. There are so many ways that students can make an impact in the classroom!
Interested in exploring how you can empower your learners with agency? Let's connect!
Below are some resources and opportunities to support efforts in developing agency among students in the classroom.
1. 10 strategies for learner-centered success. Creating an inclusive and equitable learning community shouldn't be an add-on when it is foundational to learning and living our lives to their fullest potential. Here are 10 strategies to get to know your students and create an inclusive learner-centered culture.
2. Uncovering student agency. This EdReimagined article explores the meaning of student agency and how we can apply the lessons learned in a culturally-competent frame.
3. Fireside chats with learner-centered leaders. Join us alongside Digital Promise on Feb 4, at 10 am PT / 1 pm ET for an insightful conversation with Superintendents from Menlo Park City School District, Highline Public Schools, Lindsay Unified School District, and Middletown Public Schools as they discuss "Leading districts Towards a Learner-Centered Future." Register for the virtual session here.
LET'S SHARE OUR BRIGHT SPOTS!
How are you developing student agency in your context? Use #LCBrightSpots to share your experiences on social media!
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