Meeting the challenges of the 21st century requires deeper thinking (see, among other efforts, the Hewlett
Foundation’s Deeper Learning initiative). Students will need to question, pursue, and create knowledge by taking
agency and ownership of their learning (Briceño, 2013). According to Martin (2004), agency can be defined as “the
capability of individual human beings to make choices and act on these choices in a way that makes a difference
in their lives” (p. 135). In relation to education, student agency can shape the process and outcomes of student
learning (Lindgren & McDaniel, 2012).