Why the Universal Constructs?

As educators work to support students in their preparation for college, career, and civic readiness, they are increasingly interested in fostering what is called "deeper learning." While there are many definitions for this term, researchers agree that students "must be able to communicate their ideas effectively, think creatively, work collaboratively to solve problems, and manage their own learning. They need to develop dispositions — or mindsets — that empower them to confront new challenges, take initiative, and persevere through difficulties and setbacks." These skills come from practicing and mastering Iowa's Universal Constructs.

In a study conducted by the American Institutes of Research (AIR), test scores, graduation, and college enrollment were higher in schools that operated from a model of deeper learning. In fact, "Researchers found positive effects across all measures, including opportunities for complex problem solving, collaboration, communication, learning how to learn, creative thinking, assessments aligned with deeper learning, receiving feedback, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world connections. These effects were evident among a diverse group of students, including students who entered high school as either low or high achievers and students who did and did not qualify for free or reduced-price lunch." Read the research brief below for more information.

Implementation Supports

Storing and Showcasing Student Competencies

Are you ready for students to demonstrate evidence of their competencies? Are they ready to share their learning with an employer, parent, college, or community member?

Creating portfolios to showcase student learning are an essential part of how we measure progress with Universal Constructs. It will be important for students to have space to store their processes and products, as well as for authentic audiences to see evidence of student demonstration of learning within and beyond the classroom.