Student+Engagement

Term 2 2011 Increasing the student vioce here at St Dominics is key area that we are looking into

Next year 2011 sees a huge push in this area at St Dominic’s.

The theme for the year is STEP UP and this aligns well with the programme Ka hikitia.

This MOE strategy seeks to unpack and support Maori students in their learning and to take a close look at how schools are trying to break down the barriers to achievement for Maori but also for all students that attend school.

STEP UP will be the focus for all that we do here at St Dominic's. In the way that we celebrate our faith, the way that teachers engage students and the way that student will be asked to reflect on their learning.

Student Engagement is the key to any child’s learning. There are many factors that allow a child to engage with a lesson and their teacher.

· Relationships are extremely important between child and teacher. · Whether a child sees themselves as a learner and what they have to offer is going to valued and listened to. · Does the child understand what it is they are learning and how this relates to their own life?



In Term 3 2010 a survey will be carried that we hope will give some insight to this area of learning. The closer we get to student engagement within our learning lessons the better student acheievement.

What Can Teachers Do to Foster Positive Student Engagement in the Classroom?
Teachers are key players in fostering student engagement (Akey, 2006; Garcia-Reid et al., 2005). They work directly with the students and typically are the most influential in a student’s educational experience. Creating a culture of achievement in their classroom, developing interactive and relevant lessons and activities, and being encouraging and supportive to students are all ways in which teachers can foster student engagement in the classroom.