Strengths based approach
Reviewed: January 2008
A strengths based approach operates on the assumption that people have strengths and resources for their own empowerment. Traditional teaching and professional development models concentrate on deficit based approaches, ignoring the strengths and experiences of the participants. In a strengths-based approach the focus is on the individual not the content. Drawing on appreciative inquiry, strengths based methodologies do not ignore problems. Instead they shift the frame of reference to define the issues. By focussing on what is working well, informed successful strategies support the adaptive growth of organisations and individuals.
Website
Greenville College - Gallup StrengthsFinder Home
is a post compulsory Christian college. This section of their website has a range of articles and information on strengths based approaches and how the college has gone about implementing this approach.
Case Studies
Case Study: Building a Strengths-Based School (Part 1)
At Lincoln East High School, respect starts with an appreciation of talents and strengths. A case study developed by Gallup University that specialises in strengths based methodologies for schools and other organisations. An interesting review of a strengths based approach in an educational setting.
A Case Study: Building a Strengths-Based School (Part 2)
How teachers in Lincoln, Nebraska, have developed innovative ways to integrate a strengths-based philosophy in the classroom. A case study developed by Gallup University that specialises in strengths based methodologies for schools and other organisations. An interesting review of a strengths based approach in an educational setting.
Publications
educational HORIZONS, The Quest for Strengths: The Dawn of a Talent-Approach to K12 Education, Vol 83, No. 3, Spring 2005
This group of articles focuses on a concrete answer, one that a whole-school approach or even a single teacher working alone can implement easily and inexpensively.
TAGAGAU, Silina and Pettit, John 2006, A successful strength-based approach in PNG Education – From strength to strength – Building on strengths to build strong school-community partnerships, Paper presented at the 2006 Strength Based Strategies Conference, November 2006, Hyderabad, India
The Basic Education Development Project works with over 3000 communities in PNG to promote school-community partnerships. The project uses a strength-based approach unique to PNG in training and funding gender-equitable teams of two (an education officer and leader from the local women) to conduct capacity building visits. Their training focuses on the 5D model of capacity building and includes HIV/AIDS and gender awareness.