By: Aditya Bhakta, DPS, Bokaro.
Today’s generation is extremely curious about the world and has a natural thirst for learning and exploring. Today’s youth is digitally connected, globally aware, and comfortable operating in hybrid spaces. They are also increasingly driven by experiences over possessions and give greater importance to personal growth than material possessions. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that experiential learning or experience-based learning has become one of the hottest trends in education. Experiential learning programs combine classroom theory with real-world applications to create hands-on learning experiences for students. Experiential education programs typically follow a structured process: First, you develop objectives for the students; then you build an itinerary that will achieve those objectives; finally, you implement your program by making sure all logistics are in place.
The idea behind experiential learning is simple. If you want students to learn something, the best way to do that is to give them some experience with the topic. You can’t learn about the Great Barrier Reef by reading about it or hearing about it from a teacher – you have to go there and see it for yourself. There is a strong connection between the plasticity of the teenage brain and the value of hands-on learning. The teen years are a time of rapid neurological and psychological development that makes this group particularly receptive to experiential learning opportunities. This means that for most young people, learning by doing is more effective than traditional face-to-face or online learning. It’s also a fun and effective way to engage students in learning and motivate them to do their best. Students who participate in experiential learning activities are more likely to retain information, feel more connected to the subject matter, and develop important skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity.
One of the key benefits of experiential learning programs is that they provide students with a unique ha kinds-on opportunity to apply their classroom learning and explore interests in the real world. In a typical classroom setting, a student might learn about the implications of rising sea levels on coastal communities. In an experiential learning program, the same student might take part in a hands-on visit to a coastal region and talk with scientists and local residents about their concerns for the future. The real-world application of this knowledge is critical to understanding its significance and value. Another benefit of experiential learning programs is that they help students explore different career options. Students who participate in hands-on learning activities are more likely to be open to pursuing non-traditional career paths, such as working in STEM fields, public service, or social justice. This is especially important in a time when young people are facing increasing pressure to choose a career path early and often feel pressured to choose a career path that will pay a high salary.
