Social Engagement: The Fuel for Learning in the Classroom

Research into the neuroscience of interpersonal engagement suggests that social engagement is a "fuel" for learning. Supportive learning environments foster the engagement of all students including those with autism. When school communities gain knowledge of a scope and sequence of skills and how to facilitate investment, independence and initiation within classroom lessons, we create a positive school climate that is focused on the success of every student. A framework will be shared that fosters social engagement, presenting information in multiple ways, and promoting student participation and relationships. Creating a classroom setting and lesson plans with these elements creates a more desirable and predictable environment for our students to learn. Participants will be able to take away strategies for measuring student engagement, designing instruction to enhance engagement, and building capacity through teacher-to-teacher mentorship.