Understanding Holistic Education and Experiential Learning by NEP 2020

New Education Policy 2020 states, “Pedagogy must evolve to make education more experiential, holistic, integrated, inquiry-driven, discovery-oriented, learner-centred, discussion-based, flexible, and, of course, enjoyable. The curriculum must include basic arts, crafts, humanities, games, sports and fitness, languages, literature, culture, and values, in addition to science and mathematics, to develop all aspects and capabilities of learners; and make education more well-rounded, useful, and fulfilling to the learner.”

According to New Education Policy 2020, academic excellence alone doesn’t guarantee success in life. Moral, emotional, physical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions should be taken well into consideration by schools for holistic development.

Holistic education and experiential learning play a pivotal role in transforming traditional educational paradigms and preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century. Here are key reasons why these approaches are crucial for schools:

1. Develops Well-Rounded Individuals

Holistic education focuses on the overall development of students, nurturing their intellectual, emotional, social, and ethical aspects. This approach helps in creating balanced individuals who are not only academically proficient but also possess the life skills necessary to navigate the complexities of modern life.

2. Enhances Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

By integrating various disciplines and encouraging interdisciplinary learning, holistic education fosters critical thinking and creativity. Experiential learning, through hands-on activities, allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, enhancing their problem-solving abilities and innovative thinking.

3. Promotes Engagement and Retention

Experiential learning engages students actively in their education, making learning more enjoyable and relevant. When students participate in activities like projects, experiments, and field trips, they are more likely to retain information and develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

4. Encourages Lifelong Learning

Both holistic and experiential learning cultivate a love for learning by making education dynamic and interactive. Students develop curiosity and a growth mindset, encouraging them to continue seeking knowledge and self-improvement throughout their lives.

5. Prepares Students for Real-World Challenges 

Holistic education’s emphasis on life skills and experiential learning’s practical approach prepares students for the challenges of the real world. They learn to work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and adapt to changing environments, making them better equipped for future careers and societal roles.

6. Alignment with NEP 2020 Goals

By adopting a holistic curriculum and experiential education practices, schools align with the overarching goals of NEP 2020 to promote educational equity, quality, and inclusiveness. These approaches contribute to creating a learner-centric education system that prepares students to thrive in a knowledge-driven society.

To better understand the difference between holistic and traditional learning, we’ve identified 5 distinctive parameters:

Approach

• Holistic Learning: Integrates multiple disciplines and focuses on overall development.
• Traditional Learning: Emphasizes rote memorisation and academic subjects.

Learning Environment

• Holistic Learning: Encourages interactive and experiential activities.
• Traditional Learning: Relies on lectures and textbooks.

Skill Development

• Holistic Learning: Promotes critical thinking, creativity, and life skills.
• Traditional Learning: Focuses on academic proficiency and exam preparation.

Student Engagement

• Holistic Learning: Actively involves students in their education.
• Traditional Learning: Often results in passive learning.

Assessment Methods

• Holistic Learning: Uses diverse evaluation techniques, including projects and reflections.
• Traditional Learning: Relies heavily on standardized tests and exams.

Teacher’s Role

• Holistic Learning: Teachers act as facilitators and mentors.
• Traditional Learning: Teachers are the primary source of knowledge and instruction.

New Education Policy 2020 brings new life to the Indian education system by replacing old learning methods with new ones. To make learning holistic, experiential, enjoyable and engaging for students, LEAD, India’s largest School EdTech company, offers several highly innovative programmes for schools, such as:

LEAD Championships

LEAD Championships is India’s biggest student championship that provides a platform for students to showcase their skills and talent to the world while competing with other students from across the country. Over 3000+ schools participate in LEAD Championships, and more than 14 Lakh students across multiple categories and age groups learn, enjoy, and win.

Student Led Conferences (SLCs)

Student Led Conferences (SLCs) is an initiative by LEAD to make learning fun and engaging for students to ensure better learning outcomes. During this activity, students become teachers for a day and explain a concept or give a short demonstration on a topic in front of teachers and parents. This boosts students’ confidence and improves their subject knowledge while uplifting their communication and presentation skills. Student Led Conferences are conducted in both online and offline modes in LEAD-Partner Schools.

LEAD Masterclass

Designed to ensure children’s holistic development, the LEAD Masterclass is an exclusive platform for students of LEAD Powered Schools where they learn life skills from celebs like R. Madhavan, Chetan Bhagat, Sania Mirza, Leander Paes, and many more. After the Masterclass, students get personalised certificates signed by celebrities, while lucky winners get signed memorabilia. Thus, this program boosts students’ confidence and ensures their all-around success in life.