LCRG Research Brief | Experiential Learning: What the Research Shows

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CENTER FOR RESEARCH ON GIRLS

education A SERIES OF RESEARCH AND INFORMATIONAL PUBLICATIONS BY LCRG

“Putting the world’s best research to work for girls.”

by Dr. Tori Cordiano, Dr. Lisa Damour and Dr. Kelly Winkelhake

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING: WHAT THE RESEARCH SHOWS Experiential learning has been broadly defined as “any learning that supports students in applying their knowledge and conceptual understanding to real-world problems.”i The principles of experiential learning dovetail with pedagogical practices known to work especially well for girls. Specifically, research demonstrates that girls are drawn to programming that is collaborativeii and grounded in real-world concerns.iii PLACE-BASED LEARNING Place-based learning, or place-based education, is the pedagogical approach focused on strengthening the relationship between students and their local communities. It has been described as “the process of using the local community and environment as a starting point to teach concepts in language arts, mathematics, social studies, science and other subjects.” iv Place-based learning also emphasizes the mutual benefits of local, hands-on learning experiences for both students and communities and is rooted in the “geology, ecology, sociology, politics, and other dynamics of [a particular] place.” v Much of place-based education focuses on outdoor learning experiences that encourage students to “become part of the community, rather than a passive observer of it.”vi Place-based education is thought to increase students’ intrinsic motivation by helping them see the relevance of what they are learning.vii Indeed, a review of 40 environment-based school programs showed improvements in standardized test scores across subjects, as well as increased enthusiasm for problem-solving.viii Early returns on immersive outdoor education for younger students have relied on case studies and qualitative research. To date, findings suggest that child-led learning in a nature classroom strengthens:

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Social and physical skills Literacy skills STEM skills Motivation, concentration and confidence ix, x


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