Agency: Helping Students Take the Lead

Instructor: Mónica Naranjo

This workshop is designed to support elementary teachers in creating learning environments where students feel empowered, engaged and responsible for their own learning. Across four collaborative sessions, participants will explore the foundations of student agency, develop strategies for creating a culture of shared responsibility, learn to plan for meaningful voice and choice, and implement reflection and feedback systems that deepen student ownership. Teachers will leave with practical approaches to shift from teacher-directed to student-centered practices while maintaining appropriate structure and academic rigor, ultimately fostering classrooms where students develop independence, initiative, and a lifelong love of learning.

Course information

For teachers

Duration: 4 weeks

4 sessions

Live peer-to-peer learning

The methodology

Teachers will learn in small groups of 2-5 colleagues, meeting once a week for 4 weeks. Sessions are 1.5 hours and can be in-person or online.

Course syllabus

Session 1: Understanding Student Ownership: What, Why and How?

• Explore what it truly means for students to take ownership of their learning
• Unpack the key elements of agency and the mindsets needed to foster ownership
• Identify opportunities to shift from teacher-led to student-centered practices

Session 2: Creating a Culture of Shared Responsibility

• Explore how to co-construct classroom environments that support shared ownership
• Develop essential agreements and involve students in setting meaningful routines
• Build classroom systems that promote independence, collaboration and mutual accountability

Session 3: Planning for Voice and Choice in Learning

• Explore how to integrate voice and choice into planning, instruction and assessment
• Design inquiry-driven learning experiences with differentiated learning pathways
• Create structures that balance student choice with clear learning expectations

Session 4: Using Reflection and Feedback to Deepen Ownership

• Explore how reflection and feedback can empower students in their learning journey
• Implement tools such as learning journals and peer feedback protocols
• Use success criteria and goal setting to help students monitor progress and take initiative

Instructor

Mónica Naranjo

Specialist in international education, with extensive experience in implementing International Baccalaureate (IB) Programs and leading teacher training. With over 20 years of experience in international school settings, she has supported school communities as a teacher, coordinator, consultant, workshop leader, and evaluator. Her approach focuses on developing student agency, fostering cultures of inquiry and critical thinking, and promoting concept-based, student-centered learning.

How it works

You will join a group of 2 to 5 colleagues, and as a group, you will meet 4 times, either in person or online, at a time you all agree on.

Join a circle

Organize your study group with colleagues. You'll have 3 days to "match," from January 2 to January 5.

Agree on a schedule

Decide the most convenient time for your sessions, online or in person.

Join and collaborate

When the session arrives, connect with your colleagues and complete the activities together.

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