In my classroom I believe that the social, emotional, and academic learning and structure should be centered around the Circle of Courage. The Circle of Courage give students the opportunity to maintain control over their learning and over their self (Larry Brendtro, Martin Brokenleg, and Steve Van Bocker 2007). I think by given students that control we are able to function more harmoniously. I believe that by encouraging independence, mastery, belonging, and generosity, we are able to provided students with that control and accountability.
When we provide students with that structure in their academic learning, it may look like a more hands-on experience and project-based learning. Recently, I discovered "The Project Approach", a instructional strategy that provided students with control over their own learning and instructional choice. The Project Approach is an initiative that promotes "exploration and discovery" (Project Approach 2014). I like the idea of using project-based learning because it promotes student the opportunity to collaborate, take initiative, and build autonomy. Within my classroom, I want to intertwine the two educational theories; Circle of Courage and Project Approach into my classroom. By incorporating these two approaches, I think it can support students academically, emotional, and socially. Providing them with the tools they need to be successful in school and once they graduate.
One of the essential principles I want to continuously incorporate into my classroom over the year is to sustain student choice. Students will be given choice over their learning creating a classroom culture that is autonomous and naturally flowing. Additionally, student will be provided with many opportunities that encourage belonging and generosity through collaboration with peers and by establishing a class dream early in the school year.
How can you ensure students are provided the opportunity to have independence or acts of generosity when the classroom is just generally functioning? I think by promoting and reinforcing the idea with your students that you respect them. I want to have a relationship with my students that established mutual respect. I hope that by reiterating that idea and showing them that there is mutual respect between them and I, could be my biggest tool to success in the classroom. I want to be authoritative and have an authentic classroom based around respect, honesty, and humbleness.
When looking back on my own learning experience, I remember and appreciated the experiences that allowed me to make choices about my own learning, receive continuous feedback on assignments and performances, created a comfortable and stimulating culture with my teachers and classmates. As an educator, I hope that I can created this same kind of environment and give students the tools they need to be lifelong learners and community members.