Although it’s been around for centuries, experiential learning is the future of education. The teachers at High Point Friends School in Guilford County, CT, have practiced this proven-effective teaching style for over 50 years. A Quaker school serving elementary and middle school students, they are known for their comprehensive approach to education. Over the decades, they’ve seen firsthand the exceptional results of experiential education.  

What Is Experiential Education? 

Experiential learning is learning through experience. Specifically, it is learning by reflection on doing. Like hands-on learning, lessons often incorporate real-life situations and research that engages students in problem-solving with no predetermined “right” answer. The difference is, with experiential learning, students reflect on the issue and evaluate their perceptions, responses, and decisions in light of practical consequences and outcomes. Unlike rote or didactic learning, students play an active, not passive, role. 

What Are the Benefits? 

Because experiential learning applies facts, figures, and philosophies to the real world, students don’t just learn what the answer is, but why it matters. They gain a comprehensive understanding of issues and get to think critically. Instead of solving problems arbitrarily, they’re motivated to think about their solutions in light of consequences, mistakes, and successes. That way of thinking fosters a more conscientious worldview, which is a critical component of Quaker school education. It’s also one of the only teaching philosophies that can demonstrably change a student’s mindset. 

Students learn more quickly and efficiently through experiential learning as opposed to rote or didactic methods. Also, it provides a safe environment for students to explore multiple perspectives and ways of thinking. With experiential learning, mistakes are expected and accepted as a part of the process. Furthermore, this method is personal and customized. Each student is supposed to contribute, and lessons can be molded to engage the individual further. 

In addition to the benefits of experiential learning, Quaker school education is known for its focus on customs based on integrity, peace, simplicity, and equality. If you’re a Guilford County resident seeking private school education for your child, consider High Point Friends School. To learn more about their preschool, elementary, and middle school programs, call (336) 886-5516 or visit their website.