Did You Know?: 7 Elements of Learner Agency

​As I was reflecting on learner agency for specialist and supporting teachers, I came across an interesting document by Barbara Bray and Kathleen McClaskey.  I regularly follow the work of Barbara, because she has so many interesting ideas about learning, particularly regarding agency.  

In reading the post, I was suprised to find seven elements of agency, since most only refer to voice, choice, and ownership.  The broader range of elements really delves into what learners need in order to feel comfortable to show independent thinking and doing.  The seven elements are in alphabetical order: 

• choice
• engagement
• motivation
• ownership
• purpose
• self-efficacy
• voice

As you look at this list, which area(s) do you think is the easiest to implement in your practice?  Which one(s) will take the longest?  

Barbara and Kathleen created Crosswalk of the Elements of Learner Agency across the Stages of Personalized Learning Environments, which examines the seven elements of agency and how they support the development of a personalized learning environment.  It is a wonderful success criteria that helps teachers to examine where they are currently (teacher-driven, learner-centered, or learner-driven) and where they want to go next. 

Additionally, you can find resources about personalized learning on their website.  To access the website, scan the QR code. 

Something to consider as we enter in 2025.