Dr Martyn Davison and the teaching and learning coaches from Pakuranga College have put together this quick guide to understanding what engaged students look like and do in the classroom.
- Engaged students feel connected to others
They know that they belong to a community with consistent and clearly communicated expectations and norms have been set out with the teacher. They also have a sense that this community is purposeful and kind.
- Engaged students have flexibility
They understand that they have choices about activities and ways of working, and can work at their own pace. They know that their teacher trusts them to make effective choices about their learning and allows them some autonomy.
- Engaged students understand what to do
They know the schedule and what’s coming up. They are aware of their role and responsibilities and those of others. They know the learning intentions and success criteria for tasks and lessons. They also know when things are due to be submitted and who and how to ask if they’re unsure about something.
- Engaged students can complete their work
They know that work is often set out in manageable chunks and how one piece of learning connects to the next. They know that teachers sequence the learning with clear aims in mind.
- Engaged students are known to their teacher
They know the teacher has thought about students’ different circumstances. They are used to giving and receiving feedback and sometimes having their work tracked so the teacher knows how they’re going.
- Engaged students are skilful at discussion
They know that group discussion is open to all and everyone gets to listen and contribute. They also know that discussion can be one to one, and they know to ask when they need individual support.
- Engaged students understand that subjects are different
They know that each of their subjects has different approaches, priorities and ways of working. They think about the subjects they are taking and how they can look different in the classroom.
