EL (Expeditionary Learning)
EL (Expeditionary Learning)
Year-Round Learning (EL) is a teaching and learning method that promotes direct experience-based learning through the actual experiences found in the environment. Its emphasis is on working together, problem solving, and developing personal qualities and it intends to involve students in an active learning process and at the same time imbue them with the sense of duty towards the community and environment.
What are the core principles of Expeditionary Learning?
Expeditionary Learning is mainly based on the ideas of student-centered, project-based learning, community involvement, and the cultivation of positive character traits, such as perseverance, and empathy. A case in point is community service projects where students not only enhance their learning experience but also get a sense of civic duty.
How does Expeditionary Learning differ from traditional education models?
The core difference between Expeditionary Learning and traditional education systems is that the former supports hands-on activities rather than memorizing facts without understanding. Instead of determining the sole place of tests, standardized or not EL puts forward the main directive to really learn through applying it and doing collaborative projects with the other students. A good illustration of it is that instead of sitting in an exam on a specific book, students can produce a documentary or performance based on the particular topics that the book covers.
What role does assessment play in Expeditionary Learning?
In Expeditionary Learning, the assessment process is perpetual and complex, which involves both formative and summative methods. The academic learners are assessed not only on their intellectual content but also on their collaboration, critical thinking, and self-reflection. To illustrate, students can obtain comments on their communication and collaboration skills with group projects, in addition to the individual responsibilities they assumed to the final product.
Can Expeditionary Learning be integrated into existing curricula?
Sure, a way to implement Expeditionary Learning in the existing curricula is by integrating project-based learning and real-world applications into traditional subjects. Teachers can create complementary units with the help of EL principles while they also address the state standards, like engaging learners in a science project that aims to find local environmental challenges, which will make the study relevant and significant.