Supports for survival in school for ‘lower-attaining’ children: how an Autonomous Orientation to learning can help

Abstract

ABSTRACT Self-determination theory proposes that having an autonomous learning orientation will positively influence one's learning and well-being. When we conducted a unique study among 23 ‘lower-attaining’ primary schoolchildren who struggled in the core subjects (literacy/numeracy), only four children aligned with this orientation. Significantly, our findings revealed that they: were all from the same school; all had the confidence to critique their schools; all participated in absorbing outside-school hobbies; and that for three of these children, they struggled in one core subject only. Recommendations are made as to how such protective factors can support the development of an autonomous learning orientation.