Experiential Learning: How Invictus Singapore Makes Education Engaging

The experiential learning process is a learning method that places focus on hands-on learning experiences and active participation. It's defined as "learning through reflection on doing".

Many schools recognise it as the method that leaves the longest-lasting impact on students, and encourages them to pursue independent growth. At Invictus Singapore, we believe that this approach fosters active engagement and promotes a deep understanding of academic concepts. Involving students in the experiential learning process is one of our core teaching methods.

Understanding Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is a process through which students develop knowledge, skills, and values from direct experiences outside a traditional academic setting. It differs from rote learning in that it is more about learning by doing rather than by memorisation. It's an interactive and dynamic process that challenges students to venture outside their comfort zones and engage directly with the subject matter.

Central to experiential learning is the four-stage experiential learning cycle proposed by David Kolb. Kolb's experiential learning model describes four stages of the experiential learning process: concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualisation, and active experimentation.

A Concrete Experience takes place when a student experiences an activity. Reflective Observation involves them reflecting on what they've just been through. Abstract Conceptualisation is when they draw conclusions and learn from their reflection. Finally, Active Experimentation is when they put this into practice in new situations.

A common example of the process is learning to ride a bike. A learner first interacts with a bicycle by trying, and likely failing to ride it. This is their Concrete Experience. After they've experienced this, they have a chance for Reflective Observation, where they think about what they're doing right and wrong. Following this, they can come up with a mental image of how a bike should be ridden, forming the Abstract Conceptualisation stage. And finally, once they think they can do it better, they get back onto the bike and engage in Active Experimentation, where they put what they've learnt into practice. Repeat this process several times, and they'll soon be riding without issue.

However, they likely weren't alone during this process. If you've taught your child how to ride a bike, and have put them through these steps, you'll know how important it is to have a guiding hand behind them. A learner needs a good teacher to encourage and put them on the right path before they can engage in experiential learning on their own. That's where Invictus Singapore comes in.

Invictus Singapore's Engagement with Experiential Learning

Invictus Singapore wholeheartedly integrates experiential learning into the curriculum. We understand the importance of encouraging learning styles that help encourage further growth in our students. This experiential education method can be seen in the learning approach our students use.

For example, during Science lessons, students actively participate in immersive, hands-on experiments that breathe life into the concepts they're studying. This approach encourages students to understand the practical application of scientific theories within everyday situations. Students participate in regular field trips and community involvement programmes, which allow them to head out into the world and form experiences outside of a classroom setting.

Impact of Experiential Learning on Students' Development

 Invictus Singapore's unique approach to integrating experiential learning has seen tremendous results in the personal and academic growth of our students. Students pursue their personal growth by engaging in hands-on experiences, connecting theory and practice, and reflecting on personal experiences. Students participate in group activities and projects which teach them how to communicate and collaborate with each other. Through this, we help students develop critical thinking and self-awareness.

It has been observed that experiential learning enhances the retention of knowledge. By linking theoretical concepts to real-world contexts, students are more likely to remember and understand the information. This approach not only encourages a deeper understanding of the material but also helps in long-term growth.

By allowing students to explore their interests and engage with subjects in a dynamic way, experiential learning also fosters enthusiasm and motivation in students. They become eager to learn and explore, transforming learning from a passive chore to an active pursuit of knowledge.

Through this approach, we aim to provide a holistic, balanced education that goes beyond academic excellence to develop well-rounded individuals prepared for the world outside the classroom.

The Value of a Nurturing Environment for Experiential Learning

 Invictus offers a nurturing environment that greatly enhances the effectiveness of experiential learning. With a small capacity of 290 children and a class size ratio of 1:24, the school fosters an intimate, personalised learning experience. Each student receives individual attention, further promoting their engagement with the learning process.

The school's unique facilities are all aimed at creating an environment that students can truly engage in. We have well-equipped science labs, sports facilities, dedicated music rooms for creative arts, and many other locations we can host a variety of extracurricular activities in.

Experiential learning opportunities at Invictus Singapore

 Experiential learning at Invictus Singapore goes beyond textbook studies. Our goal is to provide a well-rounded, engaging education that fosters academic excellence and personal growth. We aspire to cultivate these values in our students and provide quality education to each and every one, as they begin their learning journey.

We invite you to learn more about our unique approach to education. Our commitment is to provide an engaging learning environment where your child can thrive, grow, and excel. Your child's future starts here.