The teacher's role is to facilitate the discussion rather than solving the problems for the children. In this way children are able to use skills learned in class meetings when they are in other less structured situations. One way that children have learned to solve problems is by getting to know Kelso. Kelso is a frog who teaches children nine different methods of diffusing or solving problems. He also makes the distinction between big problems, which require the assistance of an adult, and small problems, which should be handled independent of an adult.
Children also gain academic self-direction through the use of rubrics.
Children are often involved in the creation of rubrics. This helps them understand what is expected of them from the very beginning. Along with rubrics, children are often asked to self-assess at the end of a unit. This helps children to learn to evaluate and reflect upon their work. We are also trying to encourage self-direction at home.