Traditionally, learning has been equated with sitting in classes, listening to lectures, and taking notes. While this process has been working well, the world is changing, and so are different ways of learning. IB curriculum schools in Bangalore recognise the importance of offering students different ways of learning to improve their experience at school. The experiential learning method is gaining popularity and prominence as the concept of “learning by doing” is becoming increasingly relevant.
The experiential learning activity requires students to engage in a dynamic environment where they learn by doing, reflecting, and applying. Let’s explore this concept further, along with the principles and benefits of experiential learning.
What is the Experiential Learning Method?
The experiential learning method engages students in direct experiences to learn a concept. In this method, students participate in an event and reflect on their experiences to increase knowledge and develop skills. Experiential learning activities are structured and make students apply what they have learnt in the classroom in real-world settings. The learners are actively involved in experiences from which they draw conclusions and insights to apply in different situations.
For example, experiential learning enables students to not just read about leadership, but also participate in activities that enable them to participate in activities that require them to show leadership skills.
There are many ways for students to engage in experiential learning. Some of these methods include, but are not limited to, internships, field trips, site visits, learning by role-playing, community service, simulations, lab work, research projects, study abroad programs, problem-solving activities, etc. The experiential learning method transforms the learning process from passive to active.
Core Principles of Experiential Learning Method
The experiential learning method is a great way for students to acquire knowledge and retain it for a long time. As they learn by participating, they develop a deeper and more practical understanding, which results in holistic development and engagement. Experiential learning is based on a few core principles that make this possible. Let us look at them below.
- Active Involvement – In experiential learning, students are required to be active participants and not passive recipients of lectures.
- Real-World Connection – The Experiential learning method is grounded in real life and relies on real-world contexts to make it relevant and applicable.
- Meaningful Reflection – Learners are required to analyze their experiences and reflect on what they have done. Experiential learning calls for reflection after “doing” for effectiveness.
- Autonomy & Responsibility – Students exercise more control over their learning when engaging in an experiential learning activity. They take the steering wheel for the learning experience and take responsibility for the conclusions as well.
- Holistic Engagement – Experiential learning engages learners physically, emotionally, and socially. This principle means that students engage in the activity and learning experience completely.
Benefits of Students Engaging in an Experiential Learning Activity
The experiential learning method is more than just a trend in the education industry. Students derive significant benefits from it, especially when such a method is applied to IB curriculum subjects. Here are some key advantages students gain when they participate in an experiential learning activity.
- Development of Problem-Solving Skills – Experiential learning involves navigating real-life situations, brainstorming solutions, and finding creative resolutions. Not only does this improve critical thinking skills, but it also turns students into problem solvers.
- Mastery of Subject Matter – By dealing with concepts in practice, students develop a more nuanced understanding of a concept. They understand the logic behind the theory, and such an understanding is difficult to gain when just rote learning.
- Enhanced Engagement – When learning is active and relevant, students naturally tend to engage more. Experiencing the direct application of knowledge sparks curiosity and a desire to learn more.
- Turning Theory into Practice – The experiential learning method connects the “what” with the “how” and allows students to see abstract concepts come to life. This bridges the major gap between theory and practice, making lessons more practical.
- Improved Retention – It is easier to remember what we do than what we merely hear or read. The active process of experiencing and reflecting solidifies learning and makes it last a long while in the minds of the students.
- Personal Growth and Soft Skills – Experiential learning opens students up to different situations. This leads to personal growth and also helps develop essential soft skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, leadership, communication, etc.
To Sum Up
In a world that demands adaptability, critical thinking, and practical skills, the experiential learning method is the key to preparing students for future success. It empowers learners to take ownership of their education and connect deeply with the study material. It also readies them for the challenges of the future workplace.
At OWIS, one of the top IB schools in Bangalore, India, experiential learning is part of our pedagogical approach. Within the IB framework, we offer our students the independence to experiment and learn with the help of our expert mentors. To know more about how we help your child develop holistically, get in touch with our counsellors now!
