Creating Optimal Learning Environments through Invitational Education: An Alternative to Control Oriented School Reform

The importance and benefits of developing an intentionally positive school climate are often overlooked as education policy makers focus on accountability mandates that are increasingly control-oriented. Such school reforms often negatively impact the intrinsic motivation of educators and their students, while also unintentionally sabotaging the intended goals of the reform initiatives themselves (Deci & Ryan, 1985).