Further studies highlighted in the BYF article show the "why" behind the powerful impact active learning has on student outcomes. There was evidence that experiential learning engaged both the left and right sides of the brain. Engaging both sides of one’s brain meant students developed stronger relationships to the material. Moreover, brain scans of those engaging in experiential learning "show[ed] increased activity in sensory and motor-related areas of the brain when thinking about concepts they had hands-on experience[es] with."
Finally, the BYF article found evidence from a survey where "81% of high school dropouts say that relevant, real-world learning opportunities such as those in career and technical education would have kept them in school." In other words, being actively involved in learning and part of the process meant students were more attentive during the instructional period and engaged in their learning. The results of using these instructional tools for students meant a better understanding of the material, but also a better understanding of their relationship to that material. Having tried something never before tried, a student may find a new passion or realize a direction is not something they want to pursue. In the end, that first-hand information is something that students can use when making plans for their career and future.
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1 Arnholz, Jonathan. 2019. “Is Hands-On Learning Better?” BYF Build Your Future
