The Benefits of Contextual and Integrated Learning in Schools

Have you been looking for effective methods of learning that will help your students learn holistically? Replacing the former mode of rote learning in mainstream education, contextual and integrated learning is the order of the day. 

The idea behind the teaching method is simple. Teachers put forward ideas in a way that students can create meaning from their own experiences. It adopts a problem-solving method to get students to engage in concepts and bring them to life. 

Read ahead as we discuss the method and benefits of contextual and integrated learning in schools. 

What Does Contextual and Integrated Learning Mean? 

With contextual learning, application-based activities are at the core of study. How does contextual and integrated learning differ from mainstream learning? The answer revolves around the degree of application that each style of learning involves. 

Mainstream learning puts more focus on a concept rather than the way it appears in real-world scenarios. Ultimately, the way a student applies concepts depends on her exposure and experience. 

It is interesting to watch a class where contextual and integrated learning is practiced. The process begins with a teacher describing the concept to the class. Students then begin to contextualize and apply it to the world they have seen. 

You will now notice that each student brings a creative and innovative application. This creates a class of students exposed to diverse experiences and larger problem-solving skillsets as a result. 

Read ahead as discuss the benefits of contextual and integrated learning in schools. 

Benefits of Contextual and Integrated Learning 

There are many benefits of this learning method and schools everywhere should consider adopting it. 

1. Emphasis on Learning Goals

If you have ever been faced with students whose aptitude is low, contextual and integrated learning is the way to go. According to the principles of the method, aptitude is not a given. With contextual learning, students understand concepts deeper and on a more personal level. 

Hence, the goal with this method is on achieving learning goals and outcomes. With consistent focus and work directed towards the goals, the aptitude is bound to improve. 

2. Critical Learning 

Contextual and integrated learning departs from standard rote learning. What this means for students is a broad mindset that is keen to question everything they see. The emphasis is not just on learning alone but on meta-learning and cognition. 

Simply put, students learn how to learn. They are taught to question and think critically about every concept they come across.

3. Contextual Subjectivity 

Contextual learning puts contextual subjectivity at its core. Concepts dance out of textbooks and into the practical world. Where one can see a concept being played out is the question of the hour.

For instance, students learn to extend an emotion in psychology to assess behaviors of states, democracies, kings and queens, corporates, or even families. The options are endless. 

Endnotes 

Unlike other specific methods of teaching and learning, contextual subjectivity is not very difficult to incorporate. It seeps into classroom settings as a critical and analytical attitude. Schools everywhere should consider the benefits of the concept and incorporate it.