Acting on learning moves beyond investigation of an issue to identifying solutions and working towards a desired change in personal lifestyle, in school, in the community and on the planet.
The action projects are practical, real and relevant to the students. They are not planned simply as a learning exercise.
WHY USE IT?
Students put what they have learned into action and in turn gain greater understanding through the process. The premise is that if something is worth knowing it is worth acting upon.
Learning engagement is enhanced as students move from passive detachment to active involvement. The authenticity of the learning stimulates student achievement.
Benefits accrue to both the students and the community.
Skills, knowledge and attitudes for active citizenship are cultivated. Students experience that change is possible through their efforts, cultivating a hopeful outlook.
These experiences provide career insights and prepare students for the world of work. The skills of "acting on learning" overlap the skills of employment.
Acting on Learning is transformative. It can include work towards social and environmental justice with students involved as active collaborators in complex, multi-disciplinary community action projects, which they themselves initiate and lead.
TIPS FOR TEACHERS
Action projects don’t have to be culminating activities. Incorporate opportunities for students to ‘learn by doing’ on a regular basis throughout the program.
Successful action projects can range from those that are largely teacher-directed to significantly student-directed ones.
Action experience can be accomplished through a range of projects including those that educate and inform, promote positive change, improve the well-being of others and contribute to the health of man-made and natural environments.