Empowering Learners: Why Sharing Standards with Students Matters

Traditionally, learning standards were confined to teacher manuals and curriculum guides—something students rarely saw. But a growing shift is underway. More educators are embracing the power of transparency and sharing standards directly with their students. This simple act can have a profound impact on the learning process, transforming students from passive recipients of information into active participants in their own education.

What are Learning Standards?

In simple terms, learning standards are clear statements of what students should know and be able to do at different points in their education. They define the skills, knowledge, and concepts considered essential within a subject area, setting consistent expectations across classrooms and even across states (like with the Common Core State Standards).

Why the Shift Towards Sharing Standards?

Here's why educators are opting to be upfront with students about standards:

• Demystifies Learning: Standards spell out expectations in student-friendly terms, taking the guesswork out of "what do I need to learn?"
• Fosters Ownership: When students understand the goals, they're more invested. It's the difference between being told what to do and understanding the why behind it.
• Encourages Self-Assessment: Standards provide a framework for self-reflection. Students can ask themselves, "Am I meeting this standard? What do I still need to work on?"
• Facilitates Feedback: Instead of vague praise or criticism, standards enable targeted feedback for growth, both from teachers and during peer-review.
• Builds Confidence: When students see tangible progress towards the standards, it builds self-efficacy and a "can-do" attitude.

How to Share Standards Effectively: Tips for Teachers

• Break It Down: Unpack complex standards into student-friendly language. Use visuals, examples, and connect them to real-life situations.
• Start Early: Don't wait until high school - introduce the concept of standards in age-appropriate ways from elementary school onwards.
• Involve Students: Give students a say in creating charts, checklists, or rubrics based on the standards.
• Refer to Them Constantly: Standards shouldn't be a one-time presentation. Weave them into lessons: "Today, we're working on standard 3, analyzing primary sources..."
• Make Reflection Routine: Build in time for students to reflect on their progress. This could be through self-assessments or exit tickets.

Example: Sharing Standards in Action

Imagine an 8th-grade history class studying the Civil War. The teacher could:

• Provide a simplified "cheat sheet" of key standards for the unit.
• Have students create visual timelines charting their progress.
• Before an essay assignment, discuss the relevant writing standards together.
• Dedicate time for students to evaluate their own (or their peers') work against the standards.

Beyond Just a Good Idea: The Research Supports It

Sharing standards isn't just a feel-good practice; research backs its benefits. Studies link it to improved student self-regulation, increased motivation, and better academic performance. It aligns with the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), which emphasizes setting clear goals for all learners.

Partnering with Green LMS

To effectively implement standards-based learning, educators need the right tools. Green LMS, specialists in L&D, provide employee learning and development solutions that support employee performance across various aspects, including recruiting, onboarding, employee engagement, succession planning, and continuous improvement. We offer tailored solutions, including Talent Development Software, LMS for colleges, LMS for schools, LMS for corporate, and LMS for business.

Let's collaborate to create a learning environment where standards become vehicles of empowerment for your students!