The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) today announced $425,000 in funding to support a partnership between the Boston Debate League (BDL), the Dr. William W. Henderson Inclusion School, and Boston University’s Wheelock College of Education and Human Development to build a framework for student-driven learning through classroom discourse. Specifically, it will be a framework for implementing and scaling a debate-inspired classroom program, where students lead their own thinking and conversations through evidence-based discourse.

“Research indicates that students learn better when they talk more – and with each other – in the classroom. Through Debate-Inspired Classrooms instructional coaching, teachers create environments where students are regularly practicing critical thinking, analysis, evaluation, and problem-solving,” said Mike Wasserman of the BDL. “This funding will allow us to examine and refine our instructional coaching model and make data-driven improvements that evolve the approach’s focus on student outcomes.”

“Unlocking the power of advanced educational research depends on not only sharing with educators, but learning from, validating, and valuing their experiences and insights,” said Sandra Liu Huang, head of education at CZI. “We are excited to support these collaborations between educators and researchers to advance whole child-focused school practices and help improve student outcomes.”

This is one of nine grants, totaling $5.45 million, announced for teams of educators and researchers working together to improve school practices by applying the science of learning and development. The teams will be focused on school practices that help students develop self-direction and curiosity. Each team, which includes educators, support organizations, and researchers, will participate in a multi-year collaboration designed to strengthen connections among educators, schools, and communities nationwide.