More Musings - Self-Directed Learning

I love the idea of empowering my students to create their own learning. I just don't know what it looks like, especially in a foreign language class. It's actually something I've explored to some extent. I am a fan of project-based learning, at least in theory, but I don't have any models to follow to create a foreign language curriculum following that model. I tried to find research on project-based learning in foreign language classes, but no luck. I even thought of getting a PhD with that as the driving question for my dissertation. But I'm not quite there.

I've never been one to throw out the baby with the bath water. I embrace new ideas and incorporate them along with the tried and true. But somehow this feels different. It feels as if to truly empower students, the whole structure has to change. And it sounds really scary, but it's exciting too.

But I've never fundamentally re-designed a curriculum before. I don't even know where to start. But I am convinced in the value of the exercise. So maybe this is step one? Casting the net, looking for ideas, resources and mentors from whom to learn.

OK, I just did what I would love for my students to do - start their own learning journey by casting the net. Maybe I can figure this out after all. But I still need help!

All ideas welcome!