Education is a basic right- at least in the majority of the world. Since schools came to be, the traditional learning model, which involves teachers delivering knowledge, usually in spoken and written form, to a group of students in a classroom, has been used. The students are then expected to memorize whatever they’ve learned in preparing for a test.
Now, this type of system favors learners with impeccable memorization skills. However, it has two key shortcomings. One, not all students learn the same, so some struggle to keep up. Two, learning is not just about passing exams; students should acquire skills they can apply in the workplace and life in general.
That’s why psychologist David Kolb proposed a new learning method ideal for all kinds of kids. That is, experiential learning. If you need to find further information, you can learn more at Ultimate Kids Experience.
What is Experiential Learning?
Going by just the name, experiential learning is the process of acquiring knowledge through experiences. In other words, you learn stuff by actually doing them.
With traditional learning, children only grasp things on the surface, usually by reading textbooks or listening to an instructor. But since learning usually ends there, the retention is not really good. However, experiential learning emphasizes deep learning by having kids interact and engage with the world around them.
The result? The student not only has the necessary knowledge but knows how to use it properly.
How is Experiential Learning Beneficial?
While experiential learning is not really a new theory, it’s steadily gained popularity in recent years as more people realize just how important it is. So, how exactly is this model important?
Accelerates the Learning Process
The experiential learning process is pretty simple. Knowledge is delivered, followed by an activity, and then reflection. So, the student learns something new and applies it in a real setting immediately. Consequently, they grasp concepts better and faster. More importantly, they can retain the knowledge better over the long term.
Allows for Real-Time Feedback
Knowledge is applied right after it is taught, under the instructor’s supervision, and students can get feedback instantly and improve. On the other hand, educators are able to make more reliable assessments of their students and their learning needs.
Boosts Learner Engagement
It can be hard to keep engagement levels up in a traditional classroom when communication is mainly one-sided; the instructor talks and the learners listen. Experiential learning makes the learner an active participant in their learning process, therefore keeping them engaged.
Allows Kids to Learn at Their Pace
Every kid is unique, and so are their learning abilities. The experiential model is not about who comes first or last in the exam or how fast someone picks up new information. It’s about how well every learner grasps a concept. So, everyone is encouraged to take their time during practical application until they get it right.
Prepares Kids for the Future
Experiential learning nurtures kids to thrive in the future. It imparts them with skills that employers need, like problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership.
Supplement Your Kid’s School Education with Experiential Programs
Experiential learning is vital in building a wholesome individual. However, it is not adequately used in today’s school system. As a parent, it’s your duty to sign up your children for supplemental classes that will help them learn vital concepts through action.
