Episode: 95

Episode Title: The Power of Contextual Learning

File Name: the-power-of-contextual-learning

What is contextual learning, and how can it make a difference for young people? We’ll cover this today…coming up next!

Ep 95 show:

Hello and welcome—you’re in the Perna Syndicate. Have you ever had a frustrated young person ask the question, “When am I ever going to use this?” In that moment, what they’re really asking is, “What is the value and relevance of this particular subject to my real life? How will I benefit from learning this?” 

To answer these questions, we have to contextualize the learning process, to ground it in a reality they’re familiar with. Contextual learning is meaningful because it’s connected to the real world. It draws upon students’ diverse skills, interests, experiences, and cultures, and then integrates their unique background into what is being taught.

Today’s young people need contextual learning more than any other generation before them. For them, experience is everything—and that’s what contextual learning is all about. These experiences can include internships, apprenticeships, service learning opportunities, and more. It’s education made real and connected to the innate curiosity, talents, and goals of each student.

A quote sometimes attributed to Benjamin Franklin says: “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” That’s contextual learning. 

As we teach, influence, and empower young people, don’t forget to contextualize the experience and make it relevant to their lives. That’s what they’ll remember—and that’s what will make the biggest difference.  

The Perna Syndicate is all about you—shifting the paradigm in education and workforce development. Join me at MarkCPerna.com for more, and thanks for listening this week.