Learning by doing

Definition

Learning by doing is an educational approach that emphasizes hands-on experience and active participation as a means of acquiring knowledge and skills. This method encourages students to engage directly with materials, problems, or real-world scenarios, facilitating deeper understanding and retention through practical application. It aligns closely with experiential learning theories, which prioritize real-life contexts in the learning process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. John Dewey, a key figure in progressive education, advocated for learning by doing as a way to prepare students for active participation in democratic society.
2. This method supports critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as students are often faced with real-world challenges that require them to devise solutions.
3. Learning by doing fosters collaboration among peers, encouraging teamwork as students often work together on projects or experiments.
4. Assessment in learning by doing often includes reflections and self-assessments, which help students articulate their understanding and growth throughout the process.
5. This approach is particularly effective in subjects like science and arts, where practical engagement enhances creativity and innovation.

Review Questions

• How does learning by doing enhance student engagement and motivation in the classroom?
  • Learning by doing enhances student engagement and motivation by involving learners in active, hands-on activities that connect theory to practice. When students participate in real-life tasks or projects, they see the relevance of what they are learning, which increases their interest and investment in the material. This active participation not only makes learning more enjoyable but also fosters a sense of ownership over their educational journey.
• Discuss the relationship between learning by doing and Dewey's philosophy of education.
  • Dewey's philosophy emphasizes the importance of experience in education, asserting that knowledge is best acquired through active involvement rather than passive absorption. Learning by doing embodies this principle by promoting hands-on activities that allow students to explore concepts in a meaningful context. Dewey believed that such experiential learning prepares individuals for democratic citizenship, as it cultivates critical thinking, social skills, and an understanding of the community.
• Evaluate the impact of learning by doing on developing 21st-century skills among students.
  • Learning by doing has a significant impact on developing 21st-century skills such as collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. By engaging in hands-on projects, students learn to work effectively with others, articulate their ideas clearly, and think innovatively to solve problems. This experiential approach not only equips students with practical skills needed for the workforce but also fosters adaptability and lifelong learning habits essential for success in a rapidly changing world.

Related terms

Experiential Learning: A process through which students learn by engaging in direct experiences, reflecting on those experiences, and applying lessons learned to new situations.

Constructivism: An educational theory suggesting that learners construct knowledge through their experiences and interactions with the world around them.

Project-Based Learning: An instructional approach where students gain knowledge and skills by working on a project over an extended period, culminating in a final product or presentation.