Student agency is the ability of students to take initiative and ownership of their own learning. It’s an important part of student success, and schools need to prioritize it if they want to improve student outcomes. Here are some ways to promote student agency in your school.
1. Foster self-reflection. Create opportunities for students to reflect on their own learning and progress. This can be done through activities such as journals, surveys, and self-assessments. Encourage students to take the time to think about how they are doing and what they need to do to improve.
2. Give students autonomy. Allow students to have a say in their own learning. Give them the opportunity to choose their own topics or projects, and let them take the lead in their learning.
3. Provide multiple paths to success. Instead of having a single path to success, provide students with multiple pathways. Allow them to choose their own learning style, and provide them with different tools and resources to meet their needs.
4. Encourage collaboration. Promote collaboration between students and teachers. Allow students to work together to solve problems and come up with solutions.
5. Facilitate student-led activities. Give students the opportunity to lead activities and projects within the school. This could include anything from leading a club to developing a school product or service.
By implementing these strategies, schools can empower students to take ownership of their learning and develop their agency. This will help them become more successful in their studies and in their future endeavors.