Research Methods

HOW DO WE EMPOWER YOUNG PEOPLE TO CREATE A BETTER FUTURE FOR THEMSELVES?

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Part 1: Practice Context

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In life, I have always wanted more. Being inspired by the 1989 film, Dead Poets Society, and the Robin Williams quote “seize the day boys, make your lives extraordinary”, I have always been encouraged to try different things, experiment, continually improve and always look for opportunities. How do I as an educator embed this practice of hope, forward thinking, proactive action and can do attitude in everyday secondary education?

 

As a secondary teacher, I have witnessed a continual trend in young people lacking the motivation to create a better future for themselves. Is it because young people have too much choice? Can young people break through the noise to make clear decisive choices? Are they equipped to deal with challenges? Are the constructs of education restricting the explorative nature of learning? Is the increase in anxiety levels and depression in young people a result of this lack of motivation? Teachers and students are at a loss. Is there research out there that can shed more light on how we can empower young people to create a better future for themselves?