EDCM 505 - Creating a Classroom Space for Open Conversations (3)

Education has traditionally cast the teacher as a “sage on the stage” who has all the knowledge and incrementally “gives” it to his or her students. In modern education, however, teachers are increasingly acting as the “guide on the side” who collaborates with students in the learning process. So what is your role in a more student-centered classroom? How can you facilitate this educational model with grace and ease?

In this course, you will cultivate philosophies, tools, and strategies that you can use to encourage a classroom climate that supports and inspires collaboration. You’ll help students feel accepted, successful, and confident enough to express themselves by creating a respectful, inclusive learning environment where all students know they are important and valued. You’ll learn how to help students take ownership of their education by facilitating open-ended conversations and using “accountable talk” and metacognitive techniques. Allowing students to drive the conversation and collaborate with one another will prepare them for life outside of school and in the workplace, where they will work with others to analyze situations and solve problems on a daily basis. 

Using the techniques from this course, you’ll be able to foster a student-centered classroom where you help learners take responsibility for their education and be more intellectually, socially, and emotionally engaged.