PERSONAL
There is a purposeful, meaningful, and authentic "why" to the learning and to the assessment that is designed by the learner, and an invitation to bring all of the rich identities of the learner into the moment.
- the learner defines meaning, not the teacher/facilitator or educational cultural context
- teachers need to be able to identify and reflect upon how their own identities, lived experiences, and biases could impact how they are receiving student demonstration of learning
what MINDSET SHIFTS might be needed
- student culture and identity as curriculum
- student choice in process and product
- capstone projects
What this could look like
- challenges the "one right way" characteristic of white supremacy culture (Okun) by situating the learner as expert and acknowledge the multitude of ways...
- self-love and affirmation vs external validation
how might this be liberatory?
SEE IT IN PRACTICE...
CAJON VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
EL CAJON,CA
TEDxKids@ElCajon is an annual non-profit, independently organized, TEDxYouth event. Children ages five through eighteen from our community have shared their personal journeys, captivating stories, and ideas that inspire an audience of all ages.
Since 2015, TEDxKids@ElCajon has broadened horizons, ignited thoughts, and sparked conversations with themes including Doers and Dreamers, Beyond Infinity, and My Future Possible Self.
Oakland unified school district oakland,CA
In the Oakland Unified School District, a yearlong Graduate Capstone Project provides an opportunity for students to research, analyze, and become experts in a topic of their own choosing. This districtwide performance assessment is building students’ ownership of their own learning and helping them develop and use critical thinking and communication skills.
Native american Community Academy (NACA)
Albuquerque, NM
NACA is a small school that focuses on identity through culture & language, holistic wellness, community & family, and academic preparation. Our philosophy is grounded in both the Indigenous thought and a rigorous approach to career-preparatory education. We require excellence from our students, dedication from our teachers, and commitment from our parents. Explore NACA's curriculum.
