My first post about Thrively was in 2015. Since then, the platform has changed a bit. There is still a free option that includes a Strengths Assessment and links to resources and local activities connected to student interests. However, there are now journals and online courses, such as, “Find Your Passion” and “Grit.” There are even more options in Classroom Pro and School Pro that you can see on this pricing comparison page.
I am using Thrively with my 5th grade gifted students. They completed the Strengths Assessment today and began the “Find Your Passion” course. With the free version, I have a Teacher Dashboard, so I am able to see their Strength Profiles, Interests, and Aspirations. I can also read the responses to the journal prompts. Using the “Class Insights” menu, I can access summaries of class interests and click on each interest to see exactly which students chose each category. You can also involve parents by inviting them to view their child’s profile.
After discussing the assessment today, one student thanked me for giving him the opportunity to do it. The entire class was enthusiastic about completing the assessment and continuing with the courses, which are a great tie-in to working on Genius Hour.
Thrively is a great tool to help you learn more about your students – and for them to learn more about themselves. One student ironically commented that she was pretty certain that she was not assertive like her assessment claimed – until we discussed the meaning of assertive and she realized that it can be a great strength.
Due to the vocabulary and the amount of reading involved, I would not recommend using Thrively with students younger than 5th grade.
