Answer to Question #226585 in English for khodani

Question

Although one cannot base your practice or changes to it on a single experience like this we would nonetheless want you to reflect on your experience of putting yourself in the shoes of a learner. Reflect on how these learners experienced a school day and what the implication may be for the school, teachers and yourself. Do you think schools should endeavour to include a learner perspective when they make decisions on schooling

Answer 1

Yes, because learners are the ones who are affected by decisions, it is important to consider how receptive they are to them. Teachers may arrange lessons in a specific way, but students may not respond in the same way. Allowing students to share their learning experiences can lead to a more effective learning experience. Involving learners in the decision-making process also empowers them by providing them with the opportunity to exercise agency and feel valued. Furthermore, if students are part in the decision-making process, they will value it more once it is completed because they invested in it. This could have an impact on their academic achievement and discipline. Looking at kids as "just children" who have nothing of value to contribute does a tremendous injustice to not only the school but also the community, since students have the potential to contribute constructively as active members of society if they are given the opportunity to actually be heard.