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Hands-On Learning Benefits: Why Real-World, Project-Based Activities Make Learning Tangible and Memorable for Elementary Students
- Tiffany Dixon
- Nov 9, 2024
- 2 min read
Project-based learning (PBL) engages students in hands-on activities, connecting classroom content to real-world applications. Through entrepreneurial thinking, PBL allows students to explore ideas meaningfully, making concepts stick.
1. Engaging Learners through Active Participation
Studies show that when students actively engage in learning through hands-on activities, they are more likely to understand and retain information (Dewey & Kohn, 2021). Entrepreneurial projects that involve students in real-life challenges promote active participation, making learning more relevant and enjoyable.
2. Enhancing Memory Retention
Recent findings indicate that students involved in PBL exhibit higher rates of memory retention than those in traditional learning environments (Larmer, 2020). By allowing students to connect theoretical knowledge with tangible applications, educators create more memorable learning experiences.
3. Bridging Theory and Practice
Research shows that project-based learning helps students link academic concepts with practical application, bridging the gap between theory and practice (Bellanca & Brandt, 2021). This connection makes the material feel meaningful, encouraging deeper learning.
4. Supporting Diverse Learning Styles
Hands-on learning accommodates diverse learning preferences, enabling visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners to engage with content in ways that suit them best (Collins & Halverson, 2018). PBL activities allow students to approach problems from different angles, making learning accessible for all.
5. Building Social Skills through Collaboration
PBL often requires collaboration, which helps students develop communication and teamwork skills (Larmer, 2020). Working with peers fosters cooperation, a critical skill for success in future professional and social settings.
References
Bellanca, J., & Brandt, R. (2021). Project-based learning: Real-world applications in education. Routledge.
Collins, A., & Halverson, R. (2018). Rethinking education in the age of technology. Teachers College Press.
Dewey, J., & Kohn, A. (2021). Learning by doing: The role of experiential learning in schools. Harvard Educational Review, 47(2), 165-179.
Larmer, J. (2020). The power of project-based learning: Engaging students through real-world projects. Edutopia.