What is Authentic Learning

What is Authentic Learning 

What makes a great educator is the way they encourage their students to think and to learn. They challenge them yet at the same time motivate their minds to work not just in the classroom but also in the real world. Authentic learning is when a teacher takes a lesson and applies it to real world situations. In the book, Adventures in Authentic Learning, “They also involve students in solving a problem or creating something, while engaging in tasks that incorporate skills we typically see in the workforce and our world outside of school.” (Harrington, 2020, p. 12). Furthermore, multiple strategies and resources are given to help educators and students take part in ongoing authentic learning projects. 

Educators are constantly coming up with ways to engage their students in everyday learning. One example of this could be public speaking, which takes place very often in the real world. Now, some students struggle with anxiety which is when teachers come up with ideas such as letting the students present projects in smaller groups. Other students become excited by the idea of public speaking and enjoy hands-on, engaging activities where they can get feedback and teach their classmates as well. (Harrington, 2020, p. 40).  

To continue, teachers use social media to share ideas with each other in order to gain knowledge of ways to go about teaching their students. “Now, though, we can easily reach out to a plethora of resources and online friends ready to talk through ideas with us and share their expertise and resources. ISTE recognizes the benefits of sharing beyond the bubble of a school or district, encouraging us to “dedicate planning time to collaborate with colleagues to create authentic learning experiences that leverage technology” (ISTE Standards for Educators, Collaborator 4a, 2017). The potential rewards that come as we build these channels of communication among global educators affect not only us but also our students.” (Harrington, 2020, p. 74). When continuing on with authentic learning, it is important for educators to get as creative as possible and think outside the box. Students will be more involved in the classroom and be  more productive individuals in the future. 

        Overall Adventures in Authentic Learning teaches lesson plans and strategies for students and teachers to create more engaging classroom environments. It’s important for teachers to gather ideas from other teachers to have more innovative lessons. It's important for teachers to talk with their students to get a better understanding of how each student learns and what methods work for them. When teaching, it’s not just about how the educator teaches, it’s also about how the student learns and processes the knowledge. Every mind works differently, teachers should be constantly communicating with their students so they have as much open mindedness for lessons as possible. Knowledge isn’t just about how a person learns, it’s about how it’s taught.