Our ETL Programs
The Empower the Learner (ETL) Programs are designed for parents and educators to become better prepared to use the tools to help their children develop the skills and daily practices so that they can support their own learning and to advocate for their learning at every stage of their education. Above all we want all children to be empowered to realize their hopes and dreams and to be successful in learning, and in life. The ETL Programs are based on the latest research from the science of learning and development where a practical framework and process has been designed to Empower the Learner.
Empower the Learner Framework
Identity
- Who I am
- How I learn
- What I aspire to be
Understanding how we learn is vital to helping each learner thrive and to develop a positive self-image and growth mindset. Learning science tells us that everyone learns differently, there is variability in our learning and each of us has our own identity. You may ask yourself, “Why is identity important and how do we help learners understand their identity?” It is with the “Empower the Learner” Profile
Here are three reasons why Identity is important for every learner:
for
Self-Understanding
We learn best when we have a deep understanding of who we are and how we learn so that we can use this knowledge to maximize our learning.
For a
Sense of Belonging
We learn best when we feel connected to, as well as accepted by, the people and environment around us.
for
Navigating Identity
We learn best when positive beliefs associated with our identity are maximized and when negative beliefs are minimized.
-Adapted from Transcend – Designing for Learning Prime
Develop Skills using a Personal Learning Backpack™ (PLB)
The Personal Learning Backpack™ (PLB) is unique for each learner. It is built based on the strengths, challenges, preferences and needs that a child shares in their Empower the Learner Profile (LP). It is specifically designed to include the tools, apps, skills and strategies that the child needs to support their own learning so they can become more independent and self-directed.
Skills
- To support my challenges
- To enhance my strengths
- To grow socially, emotionally, cognitively and academically
- To realize my hopes and dreams
The Personal Learning Backpack (PLB) is built based on the strengths, challenges, preferences and needs in how each learner needs to Access information, Engage with content and concepts and Express what they know and understand. The PLB is designed to include the tools and apps along with the skills and strategies that each learner needs to support their own learning. In addition, this is when learning goals are discussed with the learner for the next step: the Personal Learning Plan (PLP).
Develop Lifelong Outcomes using a Personal Learning Plan™ (PLP)
Outcomes
- Positive self-image
- Agency
- Mindfulness
- Growth Mindset
- Self-Advocacy
The Personal Learning Plan is the last step in the 3-Step Empower the Learner process using the UDL Lens of Access, Engage and Express. With a Personal Learning Plan (PLP), the learner develops learning goals, personal goals, citizenship goals and college and career goals that they have discussed with their teacher, mentor or parent. Within the PLP, learners create action plans to gain the skills to support their learning along with how to monitor their progress and reflect on their accomplishments. In the end, lifelong outcomes can be realized by the learner: ownership to learning, agency, a daily practice of mindfulness, a growth mindset and the skills to be advocates of their own learning.
Want to know more?
PARENT
Learn more about what is included in the Empower the Learner Program and how it can empower your child with the skills, tools and practices in either a remote or classroom environment!
EDUCATOR
Learn more about what is included in the Empower the Learner Program – Educator Edition and how it can empower your kids with the skills, tools and practices in either a remote or classroom environment!