How authentic learning is the solution for teaching and learning in the age of AI
When I published my book about authentic learning 2 years ago I knew I’d need to convince the skeptics and traditionalists. Talk is cheap, so I brought the receipts.
Every Sunday for two years, I’ve made it a point to share a primary source research article related to the concepts in my book, Storytelling With Purpose: Digital Projects to Ignite Student Curiosity (and sometimes, the companion online course, Uncheatable Assessments).
I know that professional educators need something more than anecdotal evidence and case studies included in the book. So I collected hundreds of peer reviewed articles from psychology, education, and science that show a direct connection between the concepts in my book and improved learning results, such as:
Curiosity improves math and reading achievement, especially for low SES students
Project based learning improves AP test scores and statistical literacy
Students who have agency learn better and are healthier psychologically
The best way to learn is to teach (aka design and deliver stories)
Creating visual explanations improves learning
Designing narratives improves understanding
But these ideas are not new. We’ve known for years that we all learn best and are most invested in a topic when we have a personal connection to the material, can see how it helps us, and are challenged (assessed?) to apply concepts and skills rather than memorize.
AI has made traditional assignments and assessments untenable, and when student attendance and engagement is at all-time lows, we’ve got to change how we do things. Let’s go back to the basics of what good teaching and learning is scientifically proven to be all about: curiosity, wonder, and purpose.
So don’t take my word for it–or your own personal life experience. Read the receipts.
The future of learning is authentic. Let’s get started.
#education #research #leadership #assessment #AI