The world our students live in is not necessarily in books or newpapers or network tv like many of us are. Therefore, we must engage them in their world. No, I am not saying just let them do what they choose...I am saying that we can reach them and engage them by putting our feet in their shoes. Once we get their attention, then we must create learning that will address standards, prepare them for high-stakes tests, and prepare them with 21st Century Skills that will prepare them for the world of work.
We need to strive for true active engagement. I found this cool diagram on the web that I want to share:
I think this really gets one thinking about the students we "see" as engaged who probably really fall into the passive compliance or ritual engagement categories!
What does authentic engagement look like?
Wow, did you know that this diagram is also used by the author Phillip Schlechty? He wrote the book that we are currently using called "Engaging Students" for our professional development. We have had several PD sessions discussing the difference between the types of engagement. We've also chosen several students who are each of these types comparing the characteristics of them and what teaching strategies we can use with each of these students. After discussing the characteristics, we broke up into departments and asked questions as "What CAN teachers control in the classroom" to "What CAN'T teachers control in teh classroom" to "What academic supports do teachers need to better engage & instruct students?" As we continue with our PD, I will keep you updated to the progress from our discussions about student engagement!
ReplyDeleteAwesome...always great when things connect to other district initiatives. Yes, I thought that chart was so powerful...and the truth is, Teachers fall into those same categories, don't they? Think about staff meetings you have been in...all 4 types show up!
DeleteJan
You are so right about teachers. If were are actively engaged, we take new methods back to our classrooms and implement them. The information becomes permanently stored in our brains. If were are not engaged, we keep the information in our brains for just a short time. The kids do the same!
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