As with many of my resources, this one also discusses the importance of developing positive relationships with students and including student interests in learning activities. “Learning can no longer be understood as a one-way exchange where we teach, they learn”. The article emphasizes that teaching is a reciprocal process – students must be listened to and valued for who they are. This leads to greater student engagement which ultimately leads to greater student achievement. Involving students as “partners in change” rather than “targets of change” allows teachers to view students in more dimensions that just the academic and supports students in playing an active role in their learning. By getting to know our students, we can develop meaningful relationships and begin to understand our students’ strengths and needs. This helps teachers make authentic student connections and better inform planning. For instance, teachers will know if their students have access to computers or if they have responsibilities at home. Understanding contexts help teachers personalize learning and engage students. The article also contains information from a study that reported on what students want. Being able to solve real problems, make a difference in the world, and see how subjects are interconnected are important priorities for students. It is crucial for teachers to understand that engaging students in learning is not a linear process and cannot be achieved “once and for all”. It must be negotiated and evaluated regularly.

Ontario Ministry of Education. (2011). Student Identity and Engagement in Elementary Schools. Capacity Building Series. Toronto: Ontario Ministry of Education. Retrieved from: https://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/literacynumeracy/inspire/