Giving children ownership of their learning boosts self-esteem
Natalia Kucirkova
Natalia researches children’s agency in education – their ability to make choices and take action, which enhances their autonomy and self-efficacy. A child’s sense of control and involvement boosts their self-esteem, making them more confident and motivated learners. Educators can nurture agency by discussing choices with students, allowing them to take ownership of their learning, and balancing independent and supported activities. Natalia notes that when children feel in control and effective, their motivation increases, leading to more successful learning experiences. She believes that fostering agency enhances educational outcomes and aligns with broader human rights and values.
Listen to Natalia
“It is really about making sure that children have choices about their own lives, it is what gives life meaning isn’t it. Agency is a fundamental human right, some say supreme human value. I think we have to see both the learning benefits as well as this broader importance of agency.”
Natalia Kucirkova
Natalia Kucirkova
Natalia Kucirkova (PhD) specialises in children’s literacy and digital technologies. She holds professorships at the University of Stavanger in Norway and The Open University in the UK. Her research focuses on how digital tools and personalised learning can enhance children’s literacy, with an emphasis on social justice. She founded the International Collective of Children’s Digital Books and chairs the Children’s Digital Book Award, which is unique in being judged entirely by teachers. Natalia has received several accolades, including fellowships from the Jacobs Foundation, and has been involved in numerous interdisciplinary projects aimed at improving early childhood education through innovative approaches.
Related episodes
Natalia Kucirkova