Providing autonomy without compromising the lesson plan or objectives
The discussion on autonomy was helpful to me. I have been quite resistant to allowing students to detemine what may be done in class for fear that it would most likely compromise the day's lesson plan. I'm beginning to rethink my misgivings. I now realize that autonomy can strongly influence student motivation. The key is to figure out how to give up some control to the students without compromising the lesson plan. Students can be allowed to make certain decisions during daily activities that really have no negative effect on that day's lesson. For instance, I can give students the choice of making their brownies with or without nuts or let them decide in which order they can perform their assigned tasks. By giving students the freedom to make these small choices, it seems to please and motivate them.
Peter, failure is a critical part of the learning process. When little time is allocated for variation or for students to have the ability to find their own way, the learning outcomes tend to be sacrificed. How do you ensure your learning outcomes are being achieved? Thanks for anything you can share.
James Jackson
In my course, we do not have alot of opportunity for variation to the plan. However, little things, like picking their own groups, or where do you want to start(which station)are mostly an eager departure that the students really enjoy. Never thought of it before as Autonomy,but I have noticed a slight change of focus on the students behalf. On occasion, though, I have seen the freedom of choice backfire, where the students don't know how to proceed. This usually goes away pretty quick though!
James, great job empowering your students and building a safe learning environment. Keep up the great work.
James Jackson
Choice is very key. For example in my Anatomy and Physiology class I have students give presentations one week on communcable diseases and I allow them to choose whether they work alone or with a partner, the disease they are presenting, and the manner in which they present (PowerPoint, posterboards, informative handouts). Giving them this power of choice increases their enthusiasm for the subject and allows them an increased sense of security. They get to choose a topic that interests them, if they are uncomfortable with speaking in front of class they can leave most of the presenting to their partner while they do most of the research, and if they are uncomfortable using technology they can take an approach that does not rely upon it.
Michael, you get it and the key is sharing perceived while not releasing your control on getting the lesson plan accomplished. This can be accomplished by simply giving students some choices on how a lesson plan is delivered. Examples include in classroom discussions, take home assignments, group activity, even role play. There are many ways to get your students more involved and to give them a sense of autonomy. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.
James Jackson
