2.4 - Self Pacing

Self Pacing...is it for everyone?

 

Welcome back to When the Wind Blows...an Epic podcast for parents, teachers, leaders and anyone vested in world of education. I am Erin Barnes, host of the show...and today’s co-hosts are

1. Who are you and what is your role in Epic?

 

1. Epic is so different. Let’s define pacing and self pacing. 

 

1. Why is Self Pacing so important? 

Gretchen: Educational environments that foster self-efficacy develop skills that last a lifetime. Students should be given the chance to self-regulate and gain the pride of managing themselves and their learning.

Erin: Self-pacing gives students the opportunity to experience the feeling of true mastery, because they are given enough time and support to get there. For students who haven’t often experienced that joy, it can have profound effects on their confidence.

We can also add here that these kids are typical better prepared for college.

We have to build a culture of responsible independent students

 

1. Do you think self pacing can have a negative impact on student mastery?

Gretchen: Not all students can regulate on their own. When students get behind and are forced to complete a high volume of work in a short period of time, their retention suffers. Students retain best at a steady consistent pace.

 

1. How do you motivate students who are behind pace?

Gretchen: Sometimes student get frozen with an overwhelming feeling. I would often sit with my student side-by-side and support them until they were caught up enough to feel confident to continue on at a consistent pace. I also helped my students make a calendar/schedule if needed. Not everyone is naturally organized and not everyone works best from 8-5 so understanding how much time and when to focus can motivate students to stay on track.

Erin: Sometimes a frank convo about the pace they are on and if it continues ho wlong it will take to complete what is in front of them i.e. If you stay on this pace it will take two years to complete 10th grade.

Tune in next week where we are rethinking how leadership and education can better prepare the next generation for a rapidly evolving world