by Jennifer Brown
Embracing Participatory Learning Through LLC Extracurricular Programming
Abstract
Designing Learning Environments to Support Participatory Learning is one of the five standards of Leading Learning. In this paper, teacher-librarian Jenn Brown has shared strategies she has introduced toward building a participatory culture at her school Library Learning Commons. Jenn has taken a ‘beyond the timetable’ approach to opening up the LLC environment and has observed not only good attendance at the clubs and activities organized in the LLC but the added benefit of increased student engagement and involvement school wide.
Jennifer Brown is an elementary teacher in the Peel District School Board in Caledon, Ontario. In her current position she is privileged to be in the combined role of teacher librarian and guidance educator at an established K to 8 school in rural Caledon. Since beginning her teaching career in the late 1990s, Jennifer has been committed to social justice & equity in education. Jenn strives to create a learning environment based on student voice, trust and believing in children to guide their learning. As a Librarianship, ESL, Special Education, and Guidance and Career Education specialist, she actively engages in the ongoing study & implementation of innovative pedagogical practices through the school library learning commons to support & mentor fellow educators & foster student success throughout the entire learning community. Jenn has served as the Ontario School Library Association president, and as a contributor to Canadian School Library publications, OSLA’s The Teaching Librarian Magazine and OLA’s online magazine, Open Shelf. Jenn has extensive experience presenting at various library conferences and workshops throughout Ontario and Quebec, including ETFO Summer Academy, guest speaking at York University Librarianship AQs and much more.