Student Empowerment and Ownership: Fostering Responsibility and Leadership in the Classroom

We are living in 21st century and I believe the purpose of education has completely changed. The aim is not to produce obedient workers but to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills to shape their own destinies. So, to empower the learners, we need to provide them with an agency i.e., voice, choice and ownership.  

Why Agency is important? 

Voice, Choice, and Ownership are important for several reasons. These principles empower individuals and communities, promote personal autonomy, and contribute to overall well-being and fulfillment. Here’s why each of these elements holds significance: 

• Voice: Voice refers to the ability to express opinions, ideas, and perspectives. It encompasses the freedom of speech, allowing individuals to share their thoughts and participate in decision-making processes. 

• Choice: Choice refers to the opportunity to make decisions based on personal preferences, values, and needs. Having choices promotes personal agency and empowers individuals to align their lives with their goals and aspirations. 

• Ownership: Ownership involves having control, influence, and responsibility over one’s actions, belongings, and decisions. It signifies a sense of possession, agency, and accountability. 

Together, voice, choice, and ownership create an environment that values individual agency, promotes self-determination, respects diverse perspectives and encourages responsibility in the classroom.  

Encouraging responsibility in the classroom  

It’s rightly said that in a classroom , responsibility is a shared commitment between facilitators and learners to create an environment of learning, growth and mutual respect. A classroom thrives when every individual takes ownership of their own learning, seeks help when needed and support their peers in their learning journey. 

But, now the question is how? So, here are some strategies/tips on how to promote agency in the classroom: 

• Offering choices and autonomy 
• Focusing on group engagements/projects 
• Bringing essential agreements into practice  
• Creating classroom council ‘Leaders in me’ 
• Assigning buddies/mentors to the learners in need 
• Providing constructive feedback 
• Promoting student – centered instructions 
• Encouraging self – reflection and goal setting 
• Emphasizing on student led inquiry 
• Building relationships and trusts  

By implementing these strategies, the facilitators can foster a sense of ownership, agency and engagement among students and contribute to the development of critical thinking, problem – solving and leadership skills necessary for their future success. 

Being one of the best international schools in India, we ensure that our children leave the school with everything they need for success- whatever they choose to be or do in life.

Thoughts by

Ms. Aenna Bansal

HRT, Grade 5