The Impact of a Child-Centered, Choice-Based Learning Environment on Student Attitudes and Learning

• In Event: Empowering Learners Through Reflection, Choice, and Participatory Practices: Innovative Approaches in Education

Abstract

According to the constructivist paradigm, child-centered strategies that capitalize on student choice, though uncommon in American schools, offer numerous benefits, including opportunities for self-directed/self-constructed learning, interest-based explorations, socialization and collaboration, inquiry, and intrinsic motivation. This qualitative case study examined a 4th grade, choice-based, child-centered classroom in a public school in Arizona through a five-week observational protocol, student interviews, and surveys, document analysis through students’ center journals, and a parent survey. Triangulated results through the multiple data sources provided strong evidence for these benefits, including recurring themes of personal enjoyment and motivation, greater interest and learning than in previous years, meaningful and consequential choices that produced a high level of engagement, and dynamic social interactions/collaborations. Implications and scholarly significance are discussed.

Authors

• Brian A. Stone, Northern Arizona University

• Jessica Beekman, Flagstaff United School District