Although implementing passion-based learning (compassion-based learning) may be exhausting for the teacher, this learning will enable students to identify personal obstacles and use them to become inspired to learn. Some ways that a teacher can encourage this type of learning is through fishbowl discussions lead by students, a genius hour where students can share ideas, and do it yourself projects (DIY) driven by student’s personal interests. It is crucial for the teacher to inform parents as to the time that will be dedicated to passion-based learning. There may be some students who do not buy into this learning style (disheartening for the teacher), but many students who struggle with “typical” school, will benefit. To make passion-based learning successful in the classroom, the teacher must conduct frequent one-on-one conferences with students to set goals, ask guiding questions, and determine student interests and desires. Oliver Schinkten stated that this compassion-based (passion-based) learning style would inspire students to become passionate about learning while they learn more efficiently and effectively.
The K12online conference has been a beneficial resource in implementing engaging ways to use social media in my classroom. Learning about engaging students and empowering them to master digital literacy skills through gamification (reflective post) and passion-based learning using social media resources has been very enlightening. In continuing to apply passion-based learning in my classroom, (I am so delighted that I now have a name for this method I have been employing!) I will be taking a risk in ensuring that content requirements are met while empowering student-driven learning. I believe that this risk is essential in pursuing my own passion to inspire students to be productive members of society through following their dreams. It is difficult, at times, to step off the stage and hand the control to the students, but I believe this strategy always pays off. Igniting a fire within my students to learn through passion and compassion is so fulfilling to me and I am grateful that I happened upon this presentation. I will continue to follow Joy Kirr (@joykirr) and Oliver Schinkten (@shink10) via Twitter and other social media outlets.