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How do we create joyful classrooms? In his book Classroom of Choice Jonathan Erwin explains that we need to address students’ need for power. But how do we do that in a way that doesn’t lead to anarchy? Erwin explains,
If we empower students by giving them a voice in the classroom and really listen to what they say, if we regularly provide all students with recognition for the unique strengths they bring to the class, and if we intentionally provide students with other ways of feeling like they make important contributions to the class, we are creating an empowering environment. By empowering students, teachers actually empower themselves.
Interested in strategies for empowering students? Read more here.