One of the most uplifting and potentially powerful forces educators can tap into is the work of Dr. Russ Quaglia. The Quaglia Institute for Student Aspirations is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and putting into practice the conditions that foster student aspirations in schools and learning communities around the world. (Please see http://www.qisa.org/)
When we remember that it is the students who do the learning, shifting our focus onto the conditions most likely to help them overcome any obstacles in their way becomes paramount. Of all factors studied (over three decades, looking at more than 500,000 students), resilience emerges as the key factor.
Dr. Quaglia and his team have identified 8 Conditions that contribute to aspirations and resilience, and introduce them as follows:
“When students have high aspirations, they have the ability to dream about the future, while being inspired in the present to reach those dreams. Whether the goal is to learn Trigonometry or a trade, get good grades or go to college, students want to be successful. Too often, however, students don’t reach their goals and fullest potential because the conditions that inspire and support them are not in place.”
Next: the 3 Guiding Principles
Bringing Aspirations Work into Online Learning
Links to each of the 8 Conditions: Belonging, Heroes, Sense of Accomplishment, Fun & Excitement, Curiosity & Creativity, Spirit of Adventure, Leadership & Responsibility, Confidence to take Action.