Moving from Deficits to Strengths: Using an Appreciative Inquiry Approach to Enhance Student Engagement and Learning

Abstract

Abstract Background: Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is a strengths-based approach that focuses on exploring participants’ core values and peak experiences. In AI, interviews are used to extract positive elements that can be applied to the current situation. The literature indicates that using AI approaches in the classroom leads to enhanced student engagement, participation and achievement. This study is an ongoing exploration of the efficacy of the AI approach in enhancing student learning with high intermediate language learners at the College of the North Atlantic-Qatar Objectives: 1. Move students from the common deficit-based, teacher-dependent, mind-set to a more self-reliant approach focused on using their strengths to learn more effectively. 2. Use a positive discourse to foster improved student attitudes, increased interaction between students and increased student engagement with their learning. Methods: A case study where participants use the following AI process: 1. Discovery- a structured intervie...