Your weekly source of learner-centered inspiration
Dear Educator,
At the end of the year, our attention can often be stretched by various competing priorities. We can push through, often leaving learners behind and stressing ourselves out trying to get the work done, or we can pause and find out what people need to actually move forward.
In this week’s issue of Bright Spots, I want to highlight a simple strategy to help learners get what they need.
With Gratitude, Katie
BRIGHT SPOT OF THE WEEK
Giving Learners the Time They Need
When I was a classroom teacher, I would often take a day periodically for WIN (What I Need) time. During this time, I didn't plan any lessons or new assignments, and students had time to catch up, get support, check in, or investigate something they were curious about if they were caught up with their work. I would post all of my assignments on a google doc and create a list of what was due so students could review what they had accomplished and what still needed to be worked on.
Having clear goals, a way to track progress, and time can allow learners to take ownership and get what they need to be successful. Depending on your age level, WIN time could be implemented as a block of time during your elementary school day, or a class period in middle or high school.
This is also a great strategy for teachers. Instead of having a staff meeting, how can you give teachers time to catch up and have a little WIN time? Time and time again people show me that when they have clear purpose and goals and the autonomy to do things in a way that meets their needs they are more invested and engaged in the process.
Interested in discussing more strategies for getting your community of learners what they need? Let's connect!
Below are some resources to help you empower your learners to take ownership of their goals and learning process.
1. WIN time in action. Check out this article from Great Bend Tribune to read about how an elementary school in Kansas is implementing WIN time to provide academic support to learners in the classroom.
2. Rediscover the power of reflection. Reflection is not just one more thing on your to-do list — reflection is learning. Dive into this article from Responsive Classroom to uncover the true purpose of reflection as a part of the natural learning cycle.
3. Foster Learner Agency. VP of Partnerships Rachel Riggio shares 3 actionable practices that foster learner agency and empower students to lean into their strengths in her latest blog post.
LET'S SHARE OUR BRIGHT SPOTS!
How are you actively helping your learners get what they need? Use #LCBrightSpots to share your experiences on social media!
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