Cultivating creative and engaged learners through strengths-based approaches

Abstract

Mason instructional faculty have the opportunity to use a Gallup self-discovery assessment, StrengthsFinder, free to Mason faculty, staff and students, that has been proven to enhance student engagement in and outside the classroom (Lopez, S. J., & Louis, M. C., 2009). The strengths-based educational approach and applications can be applied universally across all disciplines and fields, enhancing students’ learning and engagement. Once a student understands their top 5 talents, instructors can create and use a wide variety of activities and assignments to engage the students in reflective learning. This interactive session will feature best practices using strengths-based approaches and the StrengthsFinder assessment from instructional faculty in various academic colleges. Participants will explore the various ways they can integrate strengths in academic courses.