Want to Bring Out The Best in People? Start With Strengths | Chris Wejr | TEDxLangleyED

Summary

The speaker shares stories about students like Amy and Dom, highlighting the importance of focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses in education. Using examples from his teaching experience, he demonstrates how recognizing and nurturing students’ unique talents and character strengths creates deeper connections, boosts engagement, and fosters true growth. He challenges the current deficit-based model in schools, urging educators to build confidence and resilience in students by celebrating their strengths. The talk concludes by encouraging everyone to start small, with one student, to make a lasting difference in their lives.

Takeaways

• 😊 Strength-based education helps students feel valued and connected, improving their engagement and performance.
• 🎭 Amy thrived in dance but struggled at school, showcasing how strengths can vary across contexts.
• 🎯 Focusing on strengths rather than deficits builds confidence, leading to greater success and happiness.
• 📊 Studies show that a strength-based approach can increase performance by 36%, while focusing on weaknesses can decrease it by 27%.
• 💡 Even children facing significant challenges have strengths that can be nurtured, such as Dom's passion for drumming.
• 🌱 Kids' curiosity and character strengths, like courage and leadership, can be powerful entry points for connection.
• 🌍 Corporations and organizations, like schools, benefit from focusing on strengths, boosting both morale and performance.
• 💪 Struggles are essential for growth, but confidence comes from experiencing success in areas of strength.
• 🛠 Finding and nurturing each child's unique strengths, whether in academics, arts, or sports, can transform their learning experience.
• 🚀 Teachers and leaders should seek to create conditions where students' strengths can shine, fostering resilience and leadership.

Q & A

What was Amy’s initial experience like when she first joined the dance studio?

Amy was hesitant yet excited when she first joined the dance studio at 9 years old. Over time, she worked hard and became one of the top dancers, showing leadership and volunteering to help others.

How did Amy’s school experience differ from her dance experience?

At the dance studio, Amy thrived, feeling like it was her second home and a place where she could be herself. In contrast, at school, she felt invisible and struggled academically, socially, and emotionally.

What is the main argument the speaker presents regarding education?

The speaker argues that education should focus more on students’ strengths rather than just addressing their weaknesses. By doing so, it fosters connection, engagement, and helps students reach their potential.

Why is a strength-based approach important, according to the speaker?

A strength-based approach is important because it helps students feel valued, builds confidence, and allows them to experience success. It leads to better engagement and overall well-being.

What example does the speaker give to show how strengths can be missed in schools?

The speaker mentions how kindergarten students can easily list many things they are good at, but by the time they reach high school, it becomes difficult for them to name even one strength, highlighting how schools often overlook strengths as students grow.

What transformation did Dom experience when his strength was acknowledged?

Dom, initially disengaged from school, transformed when his drumming talent was recognized. He became a leader, performed for his classmates, and improved in reading and writing. His newfound identity gave him a connection to school.

How does focusing on strengths affect performance in schools and workplaces?

Focusing on strengths leads to an over 36% increase in performance, while focusing on weaknesses results in a nearly 27% decrease, according to data from the corporate world.

What role do character strengths play in the strength-based approach?

Character strengths like courage, creativity, and leadership are central to the strength-based approach. They help build connections and relationships, allowing students to feel valued for who they are.

What example does the speaker give to show the impact of creating a connection based on strengths?

The speaker shares the story of James, a student who initially ran or shut down in stressful situations. When a teacher connected with him through his love of skateboarding, James became more open, engaged, and confident.

What was the outcome for Ashley, who struggled in school but was recognized for her strengths?

Ashley, who struggled academically, was chosen to perform at a school event. This recognition of her strengths transformed her experience. She graduated high school, became more confident, and continued sharing her passion with younger students.