EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING AS A MEANS OF IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46991/educ-21st-century.v8.i1.029Keywords:
experience, competency-based education, collaboration, individual pace, responsibility, time management, formative assessmentAbstract
The modern educational system is under the continuous influence of social, economic, and technological changes, which necessitates an improvement in the quality of education through the introduction of innovative teaching approaches. In this context, the application of experiential learning is crucial, as it promotes the development of learners' practical skills, enhances cognitive activity, and reinforces the practical application of knowledge. The research problem is focused on identifying the effectiveness of experiential learning within the educational process. The research objective is to scientifically substantiate the effectiveness of experiential learning as a means of improving educational quality by examining its impact on learners' cognitive activity, critical thinking, and academic progress, as well as to identify the pedagogical conditions for its effective implementation․
The research methodology includes methods of observation, diagnostic testing, assessment, surveying, and comparative analysis. The survey was conducted among 897 lecturer-respondents, 704 of whom mentioned the use of experiential learning elements. Then, 17 master's students participated in the study; 8 were in the experimental group and 9 in the control group. Based on the data obtained, a comparative analysis of traditional and experiential learning was performed.
The results showed that experiential learning contributes to an increase in learners' cognitive activity, independent thinking, collaborative skills, and academic progress, compared to traditional teaching methods. The scientific novelty lies in the conceptualization of experiential learning as a comprehensive mechanism for educational reform. This framework integrates modern pedagogical approaches with practical strategies, serving as a robust instrument for the continuous enhancement of educational quality.
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