Transformational Learning Principles
The Transformational Learning Principles can help schools ensure all students have access to joyful and authentically engaging learning experiences—and gain the knowledge and skills they need to thrive.
As the superintendent of Jacksonville North Pulaski School District in Arkansas, I am committed to fostering an educational environment where every student is valued, empowered, and equipped to succeed in an ever-evolving world. In these respects, our district’s mission aligns seamlessly with the Transformational Learning Principles (TLPs) developed by ISTE+ASCD. These principles provide a comprehensive framework that reimagines learning by nurturing, guiding, and empowering students through evidence-based practices.
Nurturing Belonging and Equity
Student voice has become an imperative aspect of the instructional environment. As district and school leaders, we must prioritize creating a culture where all students feel safe, seen, and heard. The TLPs emphasize cultivating belonging by fostering relationships and ensuring that learning environments are inclusive and supportive for all learners. These points of emphasis are particularly vital for our diverse student body, as it ensures that every learner’s identity and background are noticed, respected, and celebrated. By connecting learning to the individual needs and interests of our students, we can increase engagement and promote mastery, aligning with the TLPs’ focus on connecting learning to the learner.
Guiding Curiosity and Expertise
The TLPs advocate for sparking curiosity by linking content to students’ prior knowledge and passions. This strategy not only ignites interest but also encourages deeper exploration and critical thinking. Developing expertise involves using evidence-based practices to ensure that students acquire essential skills and knowledge. Educational leaders must be committed to providing professional development opportunities for our educators to enhance their instructional strategies, thereby fostering an environment where all students can thrive and gain the expertise they need to succeed both in and out of school.
We must ensure that every student has access to joy and wonder in school and the learning they need to thrive.
Empowering Learners Through Authentic Experiences
Empowerment is at the core of the TLPs, which advocate for providing students with authentic learning experiences that are meaningful and relevant. By facilitating real-world projects and assessments, we enable students to take ownership of their learning, make discoveries, and build enduring skills. This approach not only enhances student agency but also prepares them to be active, contributing members of society.
Aligning District Goals with Transformational Learning
As we continue to implement the TLPs, our district is focused on aligning our educational practices with these principles. This alignment ensures that our students receive a world-class education that is both inclusive and forward-thinking. By embracing the TLPs, we are not only enhancing the learning experience for our students but also preparing them to navigate and succeed in an ever-changing world.
The Transformational Learning Principles offer a robust framework that supports our district’s commitment to educational excellence and equity, and I believe they have significant value for all schools today. By nurturing belonging, guiding curiosity and expertise, and empowering learners, we can transform education to provide better, more meaningful learning experiences for all students. We must be dedicated to this transformative journey, ensuring that every student has access to joy and wonder in school and the learning they need to thrive.
