Innovative learning approaches that shape the future
Project-based learning, problem-solving and digital learning are key to pupil engagement
In today’s fast-paced world where students are hooked on smart phones and digital technology, finding innovative ways to keep learners engaged can prove difficult. However, schools in the UAE are rising to the challenge with learning solutions that make education an engaging and relevant experience. In fact, by incorporating project-based learning, real-world problem solving and digital tools, the classroom of today provides a productive and encouraging environment for students, no matter what their preferred discipline.
Teaching methods
“Experiential learning plays a crucial role in enhancing our students’ academic and personal growth, where we ensure hands-on, real-world experiences complement traditional teaching methods. Experiments, field trips, educational tours, internships and participating in competitions, allow students to connect classroom theory to practical applications,” says Vandana Marwaha, Principal & Director, Delhi Private School (DPS) Sharjah.
Focusing on being future-ready in the real world is key to the school’s success as Marwaha adds, “Our innovative practice is adopting a curriculum that is future-focused where we integrate STEAM learning, 21st-century skills, artificial intelligence and sustainability.”
Future-ready education
Getting children ready for their future endeavours is naturally what education is all about. By connecting academic content to practical, real-life experiences with collaborations and networking, it can effectively put children on the path to a successful future. Therefore, real-world learning is a favourite of the latest teaching methods.
Sheryl Gruber, Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, American School Dubai (ASD), says, “Real-world learning is a cornerstone of ASD’s educational philosophy, allowing students to move beyond traditional instruction by applying their knowledge in meaningful, real-world contexts. Our approach ensures that students are actively using their knowledge to solve problems, collaborate and think critically.”
Of course, nobody knows where the future will lead and there will undoubtedly be professions that we don’t even know about currently as the world progresses at an alarming rate. However, schools are preparing the next generation as much as possible and, as institutes get children future-ready, both time and investment are being placed into exciting learning methods and environments.
“Our new Center for Design and Innovation for Public Purpose is committed to experiential learning, offering students the opportunity to engage in authentic, impact-driven learning experiences. In Grade 10, students will embark on a self-directed project-design experience, working alongside faculty and external mentors to design innovative solutions to real-world challenges,” says Gruber.
The school’s Grade 10 project, which is housed within the new Center for Design and Innovation for Public Purpose is set to provide the key skills for the evolving world we live in.
“Through this experience, students take concepts from business, science, technology and design and apply them to hands-on projects that address pressing issues,” says Gruber.
Assessing development
Whilst modern-day teaching methods are vital to the engagement of students, assessing their development and the understanding of their learning is equally as important.
Gruber says, “To assess the effectiveness of these experiential learning experiences, ASD uses a multi-faceted approach. Beyond traditional assessments, we emphasise reflection, peer feedback and real-world validation. Students document their learning journeys through portfolios, presentations and prototypes, demonstrating not just academic growth but also problem-solving abilities, resilience and the capacity to create tangible impact. Additionally, partnerships with external stakeholders will allow for authentic evaluation, ensuring that students’ work is both relevant and applicable beyond the classroom.”
As societal needs change, predictions suggest that there could be more AI involvement in the future of analysing student performance data. In turn, this could free up time for teaching staff to concentrate on other endeavours. However, in the meantime, the classroom is set to continue to be a nurturing and collaborative environment that encourages critical thinking and creativity, thus preparing students for whatever the future has in store for them.
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