3 ‘Justificatory Narratives’ to support LCE as a Policy choice in order of priority are:

1) The Cognition Narrative

Because everyone learns more effectively when lessons build on their capabilities and interests and are based on problem-solving and application rather than pure individual rote learning.

There is also an assumption that LCE is more activity-oriented and engaging for students, thus prompting more meaningful learning.

2) The Emancipatory Narrative

Because by putting more decisions in the hands of learners, learner-centered approaches free them from teacher authoritarianism and from strict curricula that do not reflect their personal needs.

By doing this, LCE is believed to protect learners’ rights and develop the skills and attitudes that promote democratic citizenship.

3) The Preparation Narrative

 Because it is increasingly common in national policies. It refers to the need for learners to develop ‘21st century skills’ for life in the ‘knowledge economy’. These include abilities and attributes such as critical thinking, independent research, and flexibility.

LCE is believed to support the development of these by reducing the content basis of learning and encouraging independence and collaboration rather than reliance on the teacher and text.