The Principles of Strengths-Based Education

Shane J. Lopez, Clifton Strengths Institute/Gallup
Michelle C. Louis, Bethel University/Noel Strengths Academy

Doing what we do best leads to high levels of engagement and productivity. Educators who capitalize on their strengths daily help students do what they do best by developing a strengthsbased approach to education. The principles of strengths-based education include measurement, individualization, networking, deliberate application, and intentional development. Through a parallel process, educators practice the principles of strengths-based education when advising and teaching while students learn to put their strengths to work in learning and social situations.