Agency: Helping Students Take the Lead
Practical strategies to create classroom environments where students feel empowered and take ownership of their learning journey.
About the course
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.
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 during the match period.
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.
What's included
Requirements
- Current elementary classroom teacher
- Interest in fostering student agency and ownership
- Willingness to shift classroom dynamics and teacher-student roles
- Availability to participate in all four sessions
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
Meet the 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.
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