Hands-On Learning
I have heard so many times that "Hands-on Learning" is more fun for students. Though I certainly agree that hands-on activities make learning more fun, it goes well beyond that…Hands-on equals minds-on. When we are able to engage students to combine activities that require movement, talking, and listening, multiple areas of the brain are triggered.
The research is clear that the more parts of the brain you use, the more likely you are to retain information. Furthermore, hands-on activities encourage authentic assessment, observation and real-world learning. With active learning we can engage those who are tactile or kinesthetic learners, who need movement to learn best. We also engage students who are auditory learners, who talk about what they're doing, and visual learners, who have the opportunity to see their own progress and what others are creating. For social learners, the small group conversations strengthen their interest and knowledge.
These authentic learning experiences are the keystones for preparing our students to be designers, developers, collaborators, and 21st Century leaders who are prepared to ask important questions to solve the problems for tomorrow.
The research is clear that the more parts of the brain you use, the more likely you are to retain information. Furthermore, hands-on activities encourage authentic assessment, observation and real-world learning. With active learning we can engage those who are tactile or kinesthetic learners, who need movement to learn best. We also engage students who are auditory learners, who talk about what they're doing, and visual learners, who have the opportunity to see their own progress and what others are creating. For social learners, the small group conversations strengthen their interest and knowledge.
These authentic learning experiences are the keystones for preparing our students to be designers, developers, collaborators, and 21st Century leaders who are prepared to ask important questions to solve the problems for tomorrow.
