Project Based Learning Step 5: Student Voice and Choice

Project Based Learning Step 5: Student Voice and Choice

Empower students by giving them voice in choice in their work.

Inspire students by giving them ownership in their work and allowing them to connect to personal interests.

Student voice and choice is critical if we want student ownership and buy-in with their learning. Of course, each learning experience is different, and as the teacher, you need to determine which elements of the project are non-negotiable and which are flexible. Whenever possible, allow students to determine the flexible parts while still ensuring that the project leads learners to a mastery of the required standards and learning targets.

Ways to provide student voice and choice

• Topics--Sometimes the topic is non-negotiable because that is the standard. However, many times, the standard is a process or strategy, and the topic is flexible. Consider allowing students to choose a topic from a list or suggesting their own. This can be very motivating for them and allow them to connect to personal interests.
• Final Products--Are their different ways students can show their learning? Can students decide how they can best show what they know? Sometimes, teachers will provide a list of options for students to choose while also allowing students to suggest their own idea not on the list.
• For students in grades 3-12, consider some of these online student creation tools.
• For students in grades E-2, consider Seesaw tools or an iPad app (E-K, 1, 2)
• Environment--Consider allowing student voice in how they learn. Can you allow them to choose to work independently or in a group? Can students choose the space in the room in which they prefer to work? Will some work be done outside of the classroom? 
• Pacing--Deadlines are important, but how can we provide structure while still allowing students to move at their own pace? Are there checkpoints with a firm, final deadline? Can students create their own plans or calendars for working up to the deadline? Are there opportunities for extension when deadlines are met?

Gradual Release of Responsibility

• You decide--The amount of voice and choice you release to students will depend on many factors, including age and experience with project based learning. You determine what is appropriate.
• Scaffolding independence--If you are able to do several project based learning activities throughout your course, consider gradually giving students more voice and choice with each subsequent project. This gradual release of responsibility can allow for greater student success and motivation, and it empowers learners with life-long skills.
• Teach management skills--Students don't automatically know how to manage their time. In teacher-centered classrooms, teachers do this for their students. However, when releasing responsibility in a student-centered classroom, we need to empower our students with these self-management skills. Talk about strategies. Get input from the students. Make a plan. Practice. Check in with students to see how it's going. Adjust as needed.