Facilitate Change
During EDL 677, I had the opportunity to facilitate change by creating and sharing an infographic on X. I researched how to close cultural gaps on the EdSurge website and then used Canva to create an infographic. This is one assignment I led that I would want to change because of the topic I chose to share with others on X. Although there are cultural gaps between students and teachers and even among teachers in a school building, there are still so many opportunities to close the cultural gaps that happen naturally through building relationships.
What would I like to share instead? I am glad you asked!
I would have shared an infographic about the transformative potential of giving your students more choices in the classroom. Implementing this option would be a game-changer for some educators.
Student choice in the classroom is pivotal for several compelling reasons, each contributing to a more engaging, effective, and personalized learning experience. Pandolpho (2020) states, "One of the most powerful ways to impact achievement is to actively engage students in the life of the classroom." By allowing students a say in their learning process, educators empower them to take ownership and responsibility for their education. This empowerment not only leads to increased motivation and engagement but also underscores the crucial role of educators in fostering student growth. Kiser (2020) states, "Student choice is not just a menu of decisions but is about empowering students to establish what they want to learn. It involves a paradigm shift of inspiring possibilities. It allows freedom and power in the classroom. It gives students the autonym to determine the route they want to take to learn new skills." Below is a video that shares 10 ways to implement student choice in the classroom.
(Spencer, 2016)Moreover, student choice acknowledges and caters to a classroom's diverse learning styles, interests, and strengths. Not all students learn best through the same methods; some prefer visual aids, while others benefit from hands-on activities or auditory instruction. Allowing students to choose how they learn or demonstrate their understanding can lead to more effective learning outcomes. Additionally, choice can help students develop critical thinking and decision-making skills as they weigh their options and make informed decisions about their learning paths. Sheninger (2019) says, "Our students want to be creative, collaborate, utilize technology for learning, connect with peers near and far, understand the messages the media convey, and solve real-world problems" (P 84).
Edutopia is a great website to read about the benefits of student choice.
Lastly, incorporating student choice prepares students for real-world scenarios where they will constantly be faced with decisions and the need for self-directed learning. It encourages independence, self-regulation, and life-long learning habits that are not just beneficial but essential beyond the classroom walls. Sheninger (2019) emphasizes, "It is about providing learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in college, careers, and jobs that have not yet even been created yet" (P 84). This underscores the vital role of educators in equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world. By treating students as active participants in their education rather than passive recipients, educators can create a more dynamic, inclusive, and inspiring learning environment that prepares students for the complexities of the modern world.
Kiser, S., (2020, December 17). The Benefits of Student Choice. K-12 Resources by Teachers, For Teachers. TeachHub.com.
Pandolpho, B. (2020, March 10). Simple Ways to Promote Student Voice in the Classroom. Simple Ways to Promote Student Voice in the Classroom | EdutopiaSheninger, E. (2019, April). Digital Leadership: Changing Paradigms for Changing Times. Corwin.
Spencer, J.(2016, September 27). 10 Ways to Empower Students with Choice. (Video). Https://youtu.be/L08wNizulOY
Hey Mena! Student choice and student empowerment should be at the forefront of any classroom transformation. The more we let our students take control of their own learning, the better. According to Sheninger and Murray (2019), "We need to move away from classroom design that is 'Pinterest pretty' and use research/design thinking to guide the work." I'm all for a classroom that looks inviting and fun, but if it comes at the expense of usability, it's a no-go for me. Making our students the center of our classroom design can help with getting them to take ownership of their own learning. Having a student-focused class as well as an interactive class can make learning explode even more. Merrill and Merrill (2020) say, "An interACTIVE classroom is a place where students are engaged and challenged." And that is exactly what we want, for our students to enjoy learning and to reach their potential.
ReplyDeleteReferences:
Merrill, J., & Merrill, K. (2020). The Interactive Class. ElevateBooksEdu.
Sheninger, E. C. (2019). Digital Leadership: Changing Paradigms for Changing Times. Corwin.