Reforming Schools and Systems to Engage Young Adolescent Learners

Abstract

Implementation of the Young Adolescent Engagement in Learning (YAEL) Model requires intentional actions and change in classrooms, schools and at systems’ level. Extant literature provides high-level understanding of the major phases of reform and the elements required for reform success. This chapter focuses on one approach to reform that has driven change—the Educational Change Model (ECM)—and how the YAEL Model can be intentionally implemented through adopting this reform approach. The components in the phases of the ECM may be utilised as a guide for the implementation timeline and serve as an audit tool for effective implementation, alongside the components of provision of the YAEL Model. The chapter also discusses some of the key challenges and enablers in school reform for student engagement.