Recommendations from Danish School Students
The new study confirms that the Danish school system has not yet achieved its goal when it comes to involving us students in the planning of teaching — as set out in the Danish “Folkeskole” Act.
More than one in three students feel that they are involved only to a low degree, and many would like to be involved more — with full respect for the fact that the teacher, of course, is responsible for the teaching.
Good student engagement is particularly important because the study also shows that students who are involved in the planning of teaching have greater democratic and academic confidence, motivation and well-being at school. In short, student engagement is an important prerequisite for a school where everyone wants to be and learn.
Against this backdrop, we have the following recommendations for all of you who can help turn the good intentions around student engagement into something that can be felt on a Tuesday morning in Class 5B.
Strengthen student engagement in schools — and comply with the Danish ”Folkeskole” Act
The Minister and everyone else with political responsibility for Danish primary and lower secondary schools should send a clear signal about the importance and value of involving students in teaching and complying with Section 18(4) of the Danish “Folkeskole” Act. This section requires cooperation with students on determining objectives, working methods, teaching approaches and choice of subject matter.
Include student engagement in the new subject curricula
An expert group has recommended that student engagement be integrated into the upcoming subject curricula across all subjects. Everyone involved should hold on to these intentions now that the curricula and accompanying guidance materials are being finalised.
Set political goals for student engagement in municipalities
It can give individual schools important support if strong student engagement is made a school policy objective across the municipality. This makes it easier to work systematically, share experiences and maintain focus, for example through the annual school development conversations.
Strengthen the understanding of good student engagement
There are many misconceptions about student engagement in the school policy debate. Let us create a shared understanding of what good engagement looks like. It is not about unlimited freedom, but about promoting both good teaching and democratic formation.
Gather and share knowledge about student engagement
There are plenty of examples of good student engagement. Make it easy for individual municipalities, schools and teachers to access inspiration in this area, for example through a national inspiration catalogue.
Create good conditions at individual schools
Teachers generally want to involve students in teaching. This should be supported by school leadership and school boards, for example through a clear focus, shared principles and frameworks that make room for trying something new. Students should also have voting rights on school boards.
Equip teachers well for the task
Good student engagement is an important pedagogical competence — both in general and within individual subjects. It should therefore be a central part of the education of future teachers — and the continuing professional development of today’s teachers.