Student Engagement
True student engagement arises when intrinsic motivation needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness are met.
When students feel empowered to take charge of their learning, confident in their abilities, and connected to their peers and educators, they are not just participating in education—they are thriving in it.
Workshop Overview
We all want our students to be intrinsically motivated and actively engaged in their schooling, their lives, and themselves.
This workshop is designed to provide staff with an enriching and practical experience aimed at elevating their capacity to engage students using evidence-based strategies. Whilst all teachers have a toolbelt of engagement strategies they implement on a daily basis, this workshop provides an explanation of the underlying factors required to effectively engage youth, and practical applications for how to implement them in any learning space.
Staff are guided through an in-depth Engagement Continuum, which is supported by research and grounded in Self-Determination Theory, providing context to the behaviours displayed when students are both engaged and disengaged. This provides realistic tools for enhancing intrinsic motivation to increase attendance, participation, and student outcomes, ultimately giving students a deeper understanding of who they are. The broader aim of this workshop extends beyond merely equipping educators with tools. It seeks to nurture learning environments where young people can explore themselves and the world around them, fostering connections that go beyond intellectual engagement to reach deeper, more meaningful levels.
Key components:
Engagement Continuum
Our Engagement Continuum, grounded in Self-Determination Theory, explores various levels of student engagement, the connection to motivation, and why some students get ‘stuck’ in low engagement.
New and Relevant Research on Best Practice
Current research tells us that the style and approach of the teacher in any learning space is the largest determinant of student engagement and motivation. We unpack relevant research that shares how teachers may be (unknowingly) thwarting the psychological needs of our youth and how to effectively support psychological needs and enhance engagement in the classroom.
Vulnerability Guard
Understand students’ protective factors that can interfere with intrinsic experiences of learning, and become equipped with tools to navigate this.
Practical and Easy-to-Implement Strategies
Through small and large group discussion, experiential activities and research-backed tools, staff will leave this workshop with strategies to implement immediately, that enhance student engagement and motivation.
“I loved the practical application of the strategies for engagement enhancement. Amanda and Skye’s easygoing demeanor and presentation style made the session even more engaging—thank you!”
Who Are We?
Youth Engagement Project is a not-for-profit organisation that provides support for educators, students, and youth organisations. We are on a mission to transform the landscape of youth engagement and ensure that young people feel prepared, engaged and empowered to take ownership of their lives when they step outside the school gates.
Our professional learning sessions have been designed by teachers, for teachers. As educators, we understand the importance of effective professional learning that supports staff with relevant tools and strategies without adding to their workload. Youth Engagement Project workshops are tailored, engaging, and empowering for educators, building on the existing strengths and expertise of teaching staff.
Our facilitators are all trained and experienced educators who prioritise establishing connection, building an environment of trust, and using real-world examples and storytelling to strengthen reliability and ensure key messages are delivered meaningfully.
