We are evolving in the nature of educating our youngsters. ‘Engaging’ them in learning is the key aspect today.
Activity based learning provides a wide focus on ‘engaging learners’.
Types of Activity based learning possible are
- Exploratory learning – Project based learning
- Constructive learning – Practical based learning
- Expressions based learning – Presentations based learning
The characteristics of the three types of activities in a classroom are:
Exploratory learning
Small projects feasible in the community, school environment can be allocated as projects and designed as activities for the students. Some topics which are possible through internet research can also be provided under ‘case studies’ with authentic links.
- Applicable for all individual subjects and integrated subjects
- Allows lot of movement and involvement from students
- Provides scope for inquiry and clarifications
- Development of scientific problem solving among learners
- Focus on Collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving, socio-emotional skills
- Outdoor activities ensure physical movement and whole development of learner
Constructive learning
Constructive learning provides scope for scaffolding in learning. Classroom process of learning where Role plays, Debates, Discussions are part allows constructive learning. Science and Math lab activities are preparatory work for the future that learner endeavours.
- Applicable to scenarios and lab activities
- Provides freedom of expression in a safe environment
- Scope for discussing sensitive topics in a guarded community
- Safe handling of equipment and chemicals
- Focus on practical skills, communication, empathy and self-management
- Provides an understanding towards a larger work environment.
Expressions based learning
This type of learning allows learners to present and communicate their views and ideas on the topic. Classroom activities where views, opinions, feedback etc., are required this type of learning is adapted.
- Allow for creative and expressions based concepts
- Scope for multiple form of expressions for learner
- Correction and modification on non-verbal communication possible
- Mind mapping, infographics allow representations technologically
- Focus on Communication, Creative thinking and Citizenship skills development
The process of learning varies from one student to another. It is now accepted that individuals understand and correlates the same fact from different perspectives. Education and schooling must provide scope for adapting and applying the various forms of learning. Activity based learning gives provision for variation in learning. As educationists, we accept the fact that classroom process when designed in the same way for all lessons, is monotonous for the learners. Dynamic setting of classrooms allow learning to happen. The setting for activities are not limited to classrooms. The involvement is carried home through the work done. Thus, this type of learning develops self-awareness, communication and collaboration. Activated learners are engaged learners.
Measuring and ensuring learning
Reflective learning cannot be considered as the only learning practice in the case of activity-based learning. Learning extensively, 360 degree view and predicting outcomes are various perspectives to be developed in this type of learning. The elaborate arrangement can be mapped as follows on the broader level with lesson wise the type of learning adapted.
Lesson Name | Exploratory learning | Constructive learning | Expression based |
Lesson 1 | |||
Lesson 2 | |||
Lesson 3 | |||
Based on the type of activity the goals can be fixed for learning
Class: | Lesson Name: |
Learning goal 1 | |
Learning goal 2 | |
Learning goal 3 |
Student wise achievement of learning goal can be rated on – Fair, Average, Good and Excellent with sufficient evidences for the type of ‘activity-based learning’.
Class: | Lesson Name: | |||
Student Name | Learning goal 1 | Learning goal 2 | Learning goal 3 | Learning goal 4 |
St 1 | ||||
St 2 | ||||
St 3 | ||||
St 4 | ||||
The scales can be modified as per organisation requirements, but evidences can be collected to provide sufficient scalable grading. Learning must happen to broaden society’s thinking. Today’s learning ensures tomorrow’s growth.
