Student Benefits

The benefits described in School (and Community) Benefits obviously apply to the student members of that community as well. Beyond the potential improvements in teaching and learning, however, Club Commons members realize more direct benefits as well.

Technology Mastery

An in-depth mastery of DLC tools and resources provides students with a higher level of technology fluency, as well as those 21st century skills that will contribute to their future success in both post-secondary education and the work force.

Pulling Back the Curtain

The more students understand about pedagogy in general, and particularly how it impacts classroom teaching and learning, the better they are able to take advantage of the educational opportunities provided them. The training of Club Commons members by DLC staff addresses not just technology resources and tools, but how those resources and tools support Powerful Teaching.

Student Engagement

Given authentic, meaningful roles to play in their schools, students become more engaged—particularly if those roles help blur the historic distinctions between teachers and learners. In a 21st century learning community, everyone's a teacher and everyone's a learner.

Students who may not actively participate in some of the more traditional school activities (e.g., athletics, student government) are provided an opportunity to excel in a previously unavailable context. As students gain confidence in their new role as support/training providers, they may then choose to pursue further leadership opportunities.

Leadership Opportunities

Club Commons activities need not be restricted to only supporting the DLC. There are numerous programs, both state and national, that offer leadership development opportunities to students. The DLC currently partners with two such organizations here in Washington State and we hope to partner with others.

Community Involvement

There is no reason why student technology support should be contained within the walls of a school. In most communities, there are ample opportunities for students to put their tech skills to work in a variety of service contexts.

Improved engagement, a better understanding of teaching and learning, authentic membership in a learning community—all of these lead to a greater likelihood that students will remain in school, graduate on time, and continue on to college or improved employment opportunities.