Students’ academic scores in the United States are improving little to none. The pandemic continues to be blamed for these results. However, additional issues contribute to the challenges of decreasing academic scores in children. Student absenteeism has increased, along with mental health issues. In addition to the previously listed education problems, there have also been school closures.
With all these challenges, how do teachers engage students in learning?
Opening a textbook or a link to study a concept can be tedious. Studies have shown that students learn differently. Bringing real life into the classroom boosts students’ interest. This teaching method also demonstrates how students will use skills in their lives. Authentic learning involves students being more hands-on. Students and teachers bring their experiences into the classroom and connect them to learning. Learning about students’ experiences also allows the teacher to understand the student’s culture and background.
Understanding the student starts on day one. Teachers interact with and observe their students, learning how they learn, what interests them, and how they react to different types of teaching. Meeting with parents is another layer to authentic learning. Parents can bring in additional information on what makes their child tick. My parents would have included sports as one of my interests.
A teacher in Philadelphia uses the statistics of Eagles player Saquon Barkley to promote math to her students. She incorporates the game’s results into her lessons. The article noted that students watch football highlights during math class. Students are learning more than math. Life skills incorporated into the lessons. They participate in perseverance—the trait to continue something even when it gets complicated.
When I think of my educational experiences, I am more excited about attending class when the teacher has created a fun and engaging learning environment. I look forward to the class and the assignments. The hope for authentic teaching is that students have a more meaningful educational experience and pave the way for future success.
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