Why does it matter?
The question “Most of my teachers want me to explain my answers – why I think what I think” — which students answer on a Likert scale — sheds light on whether students are challenged to explain their thinking as opposed to just give a right answer.
Presentations of learning
Presentations of learning are a forum that let students explain their thinking and be accountable for their own learning as they prepare to present their work and ground it in evidence for an audience. One way to do this is assemble a panel of peers or adults who can offer positive feedback and support for next steps.
Why do it?
Share Your Learning is a national movement committed to transforming schools into a place where students can communicate, collaborate and contribute. According to their expert team, here’s what Presentations of Learning (POLs) promote…
Student Ownership, Responsibility & Engagement. POLs can serve as a powerful rite of passage at the end of a semester or academic year. By reflecting on their growth over time in relation to academic and character goals, grounded in evidence from their work, students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning. Just as an artist wants their portfolio to represent their best work, POLs encourage students to care deeply about the work they will share.
Community Pride & Involvement. When peers, teachers and community members come together to engage with student work and provide authentic feedback, they become invested in students’ growth and serve as active contributors to the school community.
Equity. POLs provide an opportunity for all students to celebrate, reflect, plot a course forward, and ask for the support they need. They ensure that all students are seen, and provide insight into what learning experiences students find most meaningful and relevant to their lives.