How can student-led conferences improve parent-teacher communication?

1 What are student-led conferences?

Student-led conferences are a form of student assessment and reporting that involve students preparing and sharing a portfolio of their work with their parents and teachers. They can vary in format, duration, and frequency, depending on the age, level, and needs of the students. However, the common feature is that students are the main speakers and facilitators of the conference, while parents and teachers are the listeners and supporters. Student-led conferences aim to empower students to take ownership of their learning, reflect on their progress, and set goals for improvement.

3 How to prepare for student-led conferences?

Student-led conferences require careful planning and preparation from both students and teachers. Students need to select, organize, and rehearse their portfolio of work, which can include samples of assignments, projects, tests, self-assessments, reflections, and goals. Teachers need to guide, coach, and monitor the students' preparation process, as well as communicate with the parents about the purpose, format, and expectations of the conference. Teachers also need to prepare some questions, prompts, and feedback for the conference, as well as some follow-up actions for the students.

4 How to conduct student-led conferences?

Student-led conferences can be conducted in different ways, such as one-on-one, group, station, or online. Regardless of the format, the conference should follow a clear structure. The student should begin by greeting the parents and teachers, introducing themselves and their portfolio, and explaining the goals and agenda of the conference. Next, they should share their portfolio, highlighting their learning outcomes, achievements, challenges, and reflections. They should then invite the parents and teachers to ask questions, share comments, and provide feedback on their portfolio and learning. Lastly, they should summarize the main points of the conference, thank the parents and teachers for their participation, and set some action steps for future improvement.

5 How to evaluate student-led conferences?

Student-led conferences can be evaluated in various ways, depending on the objectives and criteria of the participants. Self-evaluation can involve the student completing a self-evaluation form or reflection journal, rating and commenting on their performance and experience during the conference. Additionally, peer-evaluation can be done by having the student receive feedback from their peers who observe and comment on their presentation and communication skills. Parent-evaluation can involve a survey or feedback form, where parents express their satisfaction and suggestions for the conference and the student's learning. Lastly, teacher-evaluation can involve the teacher completing a rubric or checklist assessing the student's portfolio, conference skills, overall learning progress, and achievement.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?