Getting Smart Podcast How bad is the "Disengagement Crisis"? | Jenny Anderson and Rebecca Winthrop
Feb 26, 2025
Jenny Anderson, an award-winning journalist and author of "The Disengaged Teen," and Rebecca Winthrop, director at the Center for Universal Education, dive into the crucial topic of teen engagement. They discuss the alarming decline in school enthusiasm and the four engagement modes: passenger, achiever, resistor, and explorer. Highlighting the importance of teaching agency, they offer practical strategies for parents and educators. The duo underscores the need for nurturing curiosity and crafting engaging learning environments to combat the disengagement crisis.
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Engaging Economics Lesson
- Jenny Anderson recalls a college economics class where her professor challenged students to fix a recession.
- This hands-on approach fostered a deep understanding and passion for economics, ultimately shaping her career path.
Environmental Activism
- Rebecca Winthrop recalls her high school environmental activism in rural Oregon, focusing on the spotted owl controversy.
- This experience made her feel important and empowered, highlighting the value of purposeful engagement.
Planaria Regeneration Project
- Nate McClennen's most engaging high school experience was a biology project researching planaria regeneration.
- Choosing his project and conducting his own research sparked his curiosity and gave him a sense of autonomy.
