Why Give Choice?

We often hear students lament, “Why do we have to learn this?”  We can explicitly answer their query and we can design authentic instruction and assessment to get the point across.  But, by giving students choice in their learning they answer this question themselves initially and over and over again throughout their work.   Providing choice can induce interest, maintain focus and provide a sense of purpose and thus more learning.   Giving a teenager choice also empowers.  This is something we can grant them power over with little cost or loss.  When we give them legitimate power they will not have a need to seek alternative and detrimental means of control over their lives.  Giving choice enhances learning and acknowledges the growing personal responsibility of young people.

Caution:  Too much choice is confusing and disperses energies.  It may even lead to dissatisfaction and depression.  See Barry Schwartz's book The Paradox of Choice: Why More is Less.