A lot of people have wondered if calculus could be used in real life, or how knowing the ancient civilization can help them lead the modern world. It is quite normal for people to question the relevance of what they have studied. Modern-day students are also quite curious about the importance of their courses and how they can help them serve a purpose in life. Unlike the traditional education system, modern education has become quite purpose-oriented.
Purpose-driven learning (PDL) can help to connect academic elements with real-world scenarios where students can learn the direct application of it. The idea here is to make students not only knowledgeable but also to empower them with a strong sense of agency. This allows them to understand the potential of what they are learning and how it can help to bring a change in the modern world. This unique approach can help to fuel passion in every student.
Different Aspects of Purpose-Driven Learning
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Defining ‘Purpose’
Students are required to embrace the definition of ‘purpose’ and should follow the outlined steps in order to achieve it. The purpose needs to be defined to students for actual learning of the subjects rather than being a part of a competitive academic situation where every student cares about marks without receiving an in-depth learning experience. When students can compare the purpose of learning something and whether it aligns with their goals or not, they can better decisions about which subject or course they need to engage with. There should be proper conversations between the students and teachers from the beginning of a session.
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Encouraging Enthusiasm
PDL is more focused on reaching the unique goals for each student. It is not just about finishing an assignment and getting marks but more like taking a deep dive into the subject if it aligns with the future goals. The modern education system needs to be more flexible in order help every student achieve their goals through specific objectives. The students must be given permission to determine how they are willing to complete those objectives.
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No Obstacles of Geolocation
The best part of education is that it is not confined by books, assignments, or the four walls of classrooms. If not in school, education can still take place in backyards, playrooms, local parks, and places you might not imagine. PDL or purpose-driven learning prioritizes knowledge more than geo-locations or the fancy of the physical structure. It goes beyond the traditional norms and can take place at any time and any place. That is how life-long education thrives regardless of the age of the student.
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Get to Know Your Students Well
One of the best things about PDL is that it allows knowing your students better. Their preferences and reluctances to particular topics or subject can tell teachers what motivates them the most and what does not. It offers a better chance to grasp their ambition in life and based on that, teachers can easily tailor their teaching methods based on the goals of the students.
The Neuroscientific Influence
Knowledge retention works better when students learn their lessons with strong purpose of achieving goal in their life. The brain goes through a transformative process and activates its neural pathways when the learning experience seems for effective and not just engaging. According to a recent neuroscientific research, PDL can help to activate the emotional and cognitive networks which improve memory, retention, focus and attention.
The global pandemic has already highlighted the need for modern education along with clearly defined objectives. Clearly, PDL is paving the way for a future education system that is in-depth, goal-oriented, and helps students become successful professionals.
