effectiveness of hands-on learning...

The effectiveness of hands-on learning is something you can test for yourself, but you will not be the first. RAFT, Resource Area for Teachers offers this, a Case for Hands-On Learning:

"The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as “The Nations’ Report Card,” revealed that teachers who conduct hands-on learning activities on a weekly basis out-perform their peers by more than 70% of a grade level in math and 40% of a grade level in science (U.S. Department of Education, 1999)."

"Hands-on is not new. Renowned educator John Dewey promoted learning experiences grounded in student interests and prior knowledge (Dewey, 1938). Later Jean Piaget demonstrated that physical experiences are central to child development (McAnarney, 1978). Other education experts agree: “Children are by nature observers and explorers, and the most effective approach to learning should capitalize on these intrinsic abilities." (Shaply & Luttrell, 1993)."

Understanding the necessity of hands-on learning for the full engagement of children's attention in school, helps us to understand the role of the arts, music, laboratory science and wood shop in constructing an effective learning culture and environment. RAFT was started in 1994, when Mary Simon, "the Founder and current Executive Director, saw how effective hands-on methods were for teaching in her classroom and wanted to create a resource for other educators."

I continue to prepare for my classes at the Marc Adams School of woodworking.

Make, fix and create...