Category: Student-Centered Classroom

Self-Determination in the Writing Classroom

Published on by Sandy Davis

Self-determination theory is a psychological theory that explains the motivation behind human behavior. It suggests that people have a basic need for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, and that satisfying these needs is essential for psychological well-being and optimal functioning.

In the writing classroom, these three needs can be particularly important for student success and motivation.

Autonomy refers to the feeling of being in control of one’s own actions and decisions. In the writing classroom, providing students with choices and allowing them to take ownership of their own learning can foster a sense of autonomy and increase their motivation to write.

For example, giving students the option to choose their own writing topics or allowing them to collaborate with their peers on a writing project can help them feel more in control of their own learning.

Competence refers to the feeling of being capable and effective in one’s actions. In the writing classroom, providing students with the necessary tools and support to improve their writing skills can help them feel more competent and motivated to write.

For example, offering writing workshops along with individualized instruction and student-teacher writing conferences can help students develop their skills and feel more confident in their abilities.

Relatedness refers to the feeling of connectedness to others. In the writing classroom, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment can help students feel more connected to their peers and teachers. This can increase their motivation to write, as they feel that their writing is valued and appreciated by others.

For example, providing opportunities for students to write about topics and issues they care about about, having students share their writing with their peers or a larger audience, and making sure students receive timely and constructive feedback from the instructor or their peers, can help them feel more connected and motivated.

Overall, incorporating the principles of self-determination theory in the writing classroom can help foster a sense of autonomy, competence, and relatedness among students, which can in turn increase their motivation and engagement in the writing process. By supporting students in satisfying their basic psychological needs, teachers can help them become more confident and successful writers.

Five Ways to Promote Student Autonomy

Published on by Sandy Davis

As educators, one of our main goals is to help our students become independent and self-directed learners. But how can we do that?

One way is to promote student autonomy in the classroom. This means giving students the opportunity to make their own decisions and choices about their learning.

Here are five ways you can promote student autonomy in your classroom:

  1. Offer choices: Give students the opportunity to choose the topic they want to learn about, the project they want to work on, or the group they want to work with. This allows them to take ownership of their learning and feel more invested in the process. Encourage students to take ownership of their learning by providing them with choices and allowing them to make decisions about their assignments and projects.

  2. Encourage self-reflection: Help students to think about their own learning and progress. Encourage them to set goals for themselves and reflect on their progress towards achieving those goals. This will help them to become more self-aware and take responsibility for their own learning.

  3. Foster independence: Encourage students to take charge of their own learning and to seek out help when they need it. This could mean setting up a resource center where students can access books and other materials, or providing opportunities for students to work on their own or in small groups.

  4. Provide regular feedback to students on their progress and encourage them to reflect on their own learning and development.

  5. Continuously assess and evaluate your teaching methods to identify what is working and what can be improved, and make changes as needed to support student autonomy.

Self-Determination Theory and Student Motivation

Published on by Sandy Davis

What is Self-Determination Theory?

Self-determination theory refers to a person’s ability to make choices and manage their own life. Being self-determined means that you feel in control, rather than being controlled by others.

Self-determination theory plays an important role in mental health and well-being. Promoting self-determination in your classroom not only motivates students, but leads to better learning outcomes. It is also an emerging best practice when working with students who are not neurotypical or who have learning or behavioral difficulties.

Self-determination theory focuses on three basic psychological needs:

Autonomy: A desire to feel in control.

Competence: A sense of accomplishment that builds confidence in one’s ability to learn.

Relatedness: A desire to belong and feel connected to others.


Self-Determination Theory in the Classroom

Teachers can cultivate self-determination theory in the classroom and increase student motivation by working to increase student autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

Self-determination theory provides a framework for helping teachers foster student motivation and engagement, as well as improving learning outcomes.

This approach will transform the way you think about teaching, student motivation, and course design and preparation.

Tips for Creating Self-Determination in the classroom:

In my next post, I will go over ways to faciliate student autonomy, improve competence and confidence, and foster relatedness and connectedness in your classroom and curriculum. Be sure to follow my blog to receive updates in your inbox.