ABSTRACT
Self-determining learners are readers, writers, and thinkers in all disciplines who can use what they know and apply it to different contexts for their own meaningful purposes. Developing a culture of self-determining learners does not exclude explicit guidelines, high standards, and curriculum requirements, which are a necessity for ensuring that all students receive an equitable education. Economists predict that half of the jobs that exist today will not exist in the future and that most people will need to change jobs often to stay viable. This chapter elaborates on actions and dispositions we can promote in our schools and classrooms to encourage self-determination in learning. Closely connected to balancing the power in the classroom are the daily routines and actions that contribute to making a classroom or school feel like a safe, nurturing, and connected community.
