What is one method to increase student autonomy in their learning?

Encouraging choices in assignments and allowing personal goal setting is a powerful method to increase student autonomy in their learning. When students are given the opportunity to choose how they demonstrate their understanding or which topics they wish to explore, they become more invested in their learning process. This sense of ownership fosters motivation and engagement, as students feel their interests and preferences are being acknowledged and valued.

Personal goal setting further enhances autonomy by enabling students to define their own aspirations and determine the steps needed to achieve them. This process helps students develop essential skills such as self-regulation, critical thinking, and decision-making, which are valuable not only in the classroom but also in their future endeavors. By promoting a learning environment where students have agency, teachers can cultivate a more personalized and effective educational experience.

The other methods listed, such as restricting choices or mandating a fixed curriculum, typically do not enhance student autonomy. They may limit students' opportunities for self-directed learning and personal engagement, which are critical for fostering a love of learning. Preventing group work also contradicts the idea of autonomy, as collaboration can empower students to express their ideas and negotiate their learning outcomes with peers.