Active Learning

Active learning is a teaching approach that involves students actively participating in the learning process rather than passively receiving information.

It emphasizes engagement, interaction, and critical thinking, encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning through activities that require them to analyze, synthesize, and apply knowledge.

Active language learning approaches are the best way for creatives to learn a language, keeping students involved (interested) in every step of their learning journey.

Within active learning are subcategories: Practice-based, Practice-led, Project-based, Inquiry-based, and Kinetic Learning.


These terms frequently overlap in AD Education. Hopefully, this glossary will provide the big picture.  

 

Project-based learning

Completing all aspects of a project in English takes the learner through collaborative language, formal and informal language, presentations, critiques, and negotiating.

In Gigs & Jams, we use project-based learning to organise an exhibition and a book exchange with another art school.

Practice-based Language Learning

When the student’s work determines the target language acquisition making it deeply relevant, memorable and meaningful.

Practice-based learning is a way of conceptualising and organising student learning which can be used in many applied disciplinary contexts, and most art school contexts. 

Our Sketchbook English Online Course is built from daily examples of practice-based language learning.

sketchbook English course logo English for Creatives

Practice-led Language Learning

Practice-led is similar to practice-based but raises questions that can be explored through further research.

Practice-led English learning takes place over weeks and months.

Sketchbook English presents opportunities for practice-led English learning by repeating the same weekly formats, allowing information and language acquisition to compound and branch out.

Inquiry-Based Learning

 

Inquiry-based learning is an active learning approach where we harness our students’ natural curiosity about the world and use it to make our lessons truly engaging.

Inquiry-based learning is a learner-centred approach based on curiosity, active questioning techniques, and exploring real-world topics.

It builds life skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking.

Similar to project-based or task-based learning, IBL focuses more on exploration and investigation processes than project or task completion. Students may choose a topic that interests them, ask questions, and find out more in order to answer those questions.

Start with what they know and what they want to know – and go from there.

Asynchronous Learning

Asynchronous learning is a teaching and learning method that does not require participants to be present at the same time. It allows students to access learning materials, complete assignments, and engage in activities at their own pace and on their own schedule. This approach is often used in online education and is characterized by flexibility, as it enables learners to balance education with other commitments like work or family.

Kinetic Learning

Kinetic learning, also referred to as kinesthetic learning or tactile learning, is a learning style in which individuals learn best by engaging in physical activities rather than sitting through lectures or watching demonstrations.

It emphasizes the use of movement, hands-on experiences, and physical interaction to help learners process and retain information.

Everyone learns differently, but in general, creatives tend to respond best to kinetic learning (hands-on, physical teaching) as it engages their mind and holds their interest, forging a deeper connection to the language.

The Advantages of Task-Based Learning

Essentially, task-based learning and project-based learning are used in English language teaching to encourage learners to discuss, investigate and solve non-linguistic problems all via the medium of the English language.

The learners’ curiosity is cultivated, motivating them to find their answers to questions while practising their English at the same time.

It differs greatly from traditional classroom learning. It’s encourages habit-forming.

Tip: A good result is when students forget they are using English.

Disadvantage: It won’t give each individual the language they need to present their own artwork. 

The Advantages of Practice-Based Learning

Practice-based English learning furnishes the student with exactly the language they need for their creative career.

Disadvantage: focusing too closely on the language the student knows they need (now) will not equip them with flexible, transferable language skills in the future. 

Further Information

You can read more about practice-based learning on the ELTons in Chia Suan Chong’s blog post: Ten Trends and Innovations in English Language Teaching in 2024

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