Is It Voice Or Choice?

Traditionally, schools have long been viewed as institutions primarily run by adults, where the voices of young people often find themselves relegated to the periphery. Hierarchies within educational systems tend to prioritise the structures and protocols established by the adults, leaving limited room for students to actively engage outside the confines of the typical student role. However, the paradigm can shift. In a connected school, there must be recognition of the immense value that student voice brings to the learning experience.

Historically, decision-making processes have reflected the assumption that experience and authority inherently equate to sound judgment. While the expertise of educators and leaders undoubtedly holds significance, it is important to acknowledge that young people possess valuable insights and perspectives that deserve to be heard and integrated into the educational framework.

A connected school operates on the principle of partnership, recognising students as active stakeholders in their own learning journey.

One of the largest benefits of embracing student voice lies in the empowerment it fosters among young learners. When students are given the opportunity to contribute their ideas, opinions, and concerns, they develop a sense of agency and ownership over their education. This empowerment extends beyond the classroom, equipping students with essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, which are indispensable for success in both academic and real-world contexts.

Outside of the classroom, integrating student voice into decision-making processes enhances the overall quality and relevance of education. Students offer unique perspectives shaped by their diverse backgrounds, experiences, and interests. By actively involving them in discussions regarding curriculum development, school policies, and extracurricular activities, educators gain valuable insights into the evolving needs and preferences of their student body - something that many will sadly prefer to ignore. A collaborative approach ensures that educational initiatives are more inclusive, responsive, and reflective of the diverse skills and aspirations of students.

Embracing student voice cultivates a culture of mutual respect and trust within the school community. When students feel valued and respected as active participants in the educational process, they are more likely to develop positive relationships with their peers, teachers, and administrators. This sense of belonging fosters a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves, taking risks, and embracing their individuality without fear of judgment or marginalisation.

For parents, actively involving students in decision-making processes instills a sense of confidence and trust in the school's commitment to their child's holistic development. When parents witness their children actively engaged in shaping their educational experiences, they are more likely to feel invested in the school community and actively support its initiatives.

Similarly, teachers stand to gain immensely from incorporating student voice into their pedagogical practices. By listening to the perspectives and feedback of their students, educators gain valuable insights into their learning preferences, strengths, and areas for growth. This knowledge enables teachers to tailor their instructional approaches to better meet the diverse needs of their students, ultimately fostering a more engaging and enriching learning environment.

Embracing student voice cannot be seen as merely a pedagogical strategy; it is a fundamental principle of educational equity and empowerment. In the interconnected world of education, schools must evolve into dynamic environments that value and harness the collective wisdom of students, parents, and educators. By fostering a culture of collaboration, respect, and inclusion, connected schools pave the way for the next generation to thrive as active agents of change in an ever-changing world.

They are after all the architects of our shared future.

As we finish this issue, here is a final thought from my book:

"Students who feel empowered to speak and share within their classroom “develop a role as agents of social change rather than subjects of social control” (Shier, 2019, p.2)."

Thanks for reading.

Coming soon...

Issues of this newsletter are published fortnightly/biweekly on Sunday mornings at 8am (GMT+11). Here's what is to come in the next few issues:

?????????? ??????: ?????????????????? ?? ????????????. (5/5/24)

?????????????????? ???????????????? 2 ???? ?????? ???????????????????? ??????????????: ??????????????????.

?????????? ??????????: ?????????????????????? ????????! (19/5/24)

?????? ???????????????????? ???????????????????? ???? ?????????????????? ???????? ???????? ???? 22/5/24. ???????? ?????????????????????? ?????? ???????????????? ?? ???????????? ???? ???????? ?????????? ???? ?????? ???????????????? ?????? ????????????.

Issue six out in two weeks on Sunday morning 5/5/24 (GMT+11) ?? ??

The last bit...

The misalignment between the education system and efforts to build sustainable connection is preventing school communities from travelling successfully along ‘The Connection Journey’ - a foundational concept in my new book ‘?????? ???????????????????? ????????????????????: ???????????????? ???????????????? ???????????? ???? ?????????????? ?????????????? ?????????????????????? ????????????????????’.

‘?????? ???????????????????? ????????????????????’ is available for pre-order now from the fantastic team at Amba Press using the link below:

https://ambapress.com.au/products/the-connection-curriculum

"Schools must be connected, they are integral parts of our communities. Building connections and connected communities has never been more important?than it is now.?This?book is an essential read for all teachers?and school leaders." - Mathew Green