ABSTRACT
Engaged students learn more and perform better on standardized tests. They have lower dropout rates, achieve higher levels of academic success, and are more likely to persist through academic struggles. Engagement is achieved by connecting learning experiences with student’s goals and interests, and by establishing sincere, caring relationships with students. Connecting learning experiences to student goals and interests is commonly achieved by increasing student agency—i.e., giving students increased control over learning. Establishing caring relationships with students is achieved by building trust, demonstrating concern for student success and well-being, expressing appropriate support and affirmation, and dialoguing with students on topics ranging from sensitive personal matters to subjects of humour and fun. Masters of engagement deliver with style, weave compelling narratives, and continuously look for and address indicators of disengagement. It is, in fact, meaningless to speak about the effectiveness of teachers, pedagogies, principles, technologies, or learning generally without also considering engagement: If students aren’t engaged, nothing can be effective.
