Visual Representations of Engagement in Learning: Insights From Grade 8 Students

• In Event: Roundtable Session 20
  In Roundtable Session: Using Multimodal Methods to Unpack Teaching and Learning Perspectives

Abstract

Part of a longitudinal study exploring the ways in which engagement is conceptualized and demonstrated by educators and students within the social context of the classroom, this session highlights the insights of grade eight students through the use of digital photos. As part of a classroom workshop, grade eight students were asked to capture moments of engagement in digital form by taking pictures that signified engagement to them. Students’ representations took on several themes including understandings of engagement as connected to: interest, collaboration, inspiration/motivation, nourishment, enjoyment, discovery, and a future purpose. Each theme is shared along with supporting pictures and quotes to prompt reflection and raise critical questions from the viewpoint of learners.

Author

• Tara-Lynn Scheffel, Nipissing University