Learning by doing

Definition

Learning by doing is an educational approach where knowledge and skills are acquired through hands-on experience rather than through traditional lectures or passive learning. This method emphasizes active participation, experimentation, and practical application, allowing students to connect theoretical concepts with real-world situations, leading to a deeper understanding of the material.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Walter Gropius, founder of the Bauhaus school, strongly believed in the idea of learning by doing as a core principle of education, integrating theory with practice.
2. The Bauhaus emphasized workshops where students could engage directly with materials and techniques, fostering a collaborative environment for creative exploration.
3. This approach not only focused on design and architecture but also included crafts and fine arts, reflecting a holistic view of education that connected various disciplines.
4. Learning by doing at the Bauhaus aimed to prepare students for real-world challenges by encouraging them to innovate and solve problems through hands-on experiences.
5. The legacy of learning by doing from the Bauhaus continues to influence modern educational practices, especially in art and design programs worldwide.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of learning by doing differentiate from traditional educational methods?
  • Learning by doing contrasts with traditional educational methods that often rely on lectures and passive information absorption. Instead of simply memorizing facts or theories, this approach engages students in practical activities where they can experiment and apply what they learn. By fostering an environment of active participation, learners can better internalize concepts through direct experience, which ultimately leads to a more profound understanding.
• Discuss the role of workshops at the Bauhaus school in facilitating learning by doing among students.
  • Workshops at the Bauhaus were central to facilitating learning by doing, as they provided a space for students to engage directly with various materials and techniques. These workshops encouraged collaboration among students and allowed them to experiment without fear of failure. The hands-on nature of these sessions not only helped students develop technical skills but also fostered an environment where creativity could flourish, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge in tangible projects.
• Evaluate the impact of learning by doing on modern educational practices in design and arts disciplines.
  • The impact of learning by doing on modern educational practices in design and arts disciplines has been profound. This approach has led to the implementation of experiential learning models that prioritize hands-on experiences, project-based assignments, and collaborative work. Such practices encourage students to think critically and creatively while developing practical skills that are directly applicable in their future careers. As a result, many contemporary art and design programs have integrated learning by doing principles into their curricula, preparing students for dynamic roles in an ever-evolving creative landscape.

Related terms

Constructivism: A learning theory that suggests learners construct knowledge through their experiences and interactions with the world.

Experiential Learning: A process whereby students learn through experience, reflecting on doing, which enhances their ability to apply knowledge in practical contexts.

Project-Based Learning: An instructional approach that engages students in learning by working on projects that require critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.