Authentic Learning Strategy:
Bring the Real World into the Classroom
NOTE: This strategy is part of the self-paced Promote Anytime/Anywhere Learning
Blurring the boundaries between the classroom and the real world doesn’t only mean physically bringing learners outside the classroom walls. Equally important is bringing the real world into the classroom by connecting students with content experts, community members, or governmental organizations, or by using technology to go on virtual field trips.
Bright Spots
Gain inspiration from authentic examples of this strategy shared by teachers who have used them with their learners.
Creating your own Bright Spots? Let’s get them out into the world! Share yours here.
Students Interview Experts
Students in 4th grade at High Tech Elementary in San DIego conducted interviews over zoom with park rangers as they wrote and illustrated their national parks guide as a class. Read more about the project here: “A Walk in the Parks”
Know Your Neighborhood
Students in Santa Ana Unified created a visual representation of all of the assets in their local neighborhood.
Career Path Interviews
Kindergarteners at Design39 in San Diego interviewed family and community members about their jobs and created a visual representation of their learning about different vocations and career paths.
Virtual Field Trips
Source: Ms. Knaupp on X/Twitter
Students in East Williston School District engaged in a virtual field trip to learn about what happens to slime in space!
Source: Sheboygan Falls High on X/Twitter
Students at Sheboygon Falls High School took virtual field trips to the countries they learned about during summer school.
Resources
Inspired? Use the resources below to bring this learner-centered strategy to your learning community.
Related Learner-Centered Content
If you found this helpful, try this related strategy:
Learn More in this Learner-Centered Course:
Do you already do this, earn a micro-credential:
