Summary

In this episode, Simon Jones interviews Rachel French, the director of Professional Learning International. They discuss the importance of student agency in education and how it can be fostered through concept-based inquiry. Rachel shares examples of students taking ownership of their learning and making a difference in their communities. She also provides practical strategies for teachers to implement concept-based inquiry in their classrooms. The physical and cultural environment of the classroom plays a crucial role in promoting student agency. Rachel encourages educators to try new approaches and notice the positive shifts in student thinking.

Takeaways

• Student agency is crucial in preparing students for the future, where creative thinking and problem-solving skills are highly valued.
• Teachers can foster student agency by empowering students to take responsibility for their own learning and providing opportunities for voice, choice, and ownership.
• The physical environment of the classroom should support collaboration and student-centered learning.
• The cultural environment should include diverse and culturally relevant examples and case studies.
• Educators can start by trying one strategy or approach and observing the positive shifts in student engagement and understanding.

Links online

School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my

This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.