Research shows that when teachers provide students with choices and options,
listen to students thoughtfully, respect students» perspectives, ask questions about what the students want to do, and resist stating answers too quickly, it supports students» autonomy, competence, and relatedness (Reeve, Bolt, & Cai, 1999).
In addition, such a process helps
students develop the skills and dispositions that provide the foundation for engaged citizenry: for example, learning how
to listen to ourselves and others, being responsible, thinking critically and reflectively, solving problems in creative and nonviolent ways, communicating clearly; participating in discussions and arguing
thoughtfully, and collaboratively working toward a common goal (Cohen, 2006).