What is meant by 'hands-on learning'?

'Hands-on learning' refers to an educational approach that engages students directly through active participation in practical activities. This method allows learners to experience concepts and skills firsthand, which can enhance understanding and retention. By involving students in tasks such as experiments, projects, or creative activities, they can apply the knowledge they acquire in real-world scenarios, making learning more relevant and impactful. This experiential process fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration while catering to various learning styles.

Approaches like passive listening or solely relying on textbook reading do not engage students in the same way, as they do not provide the opportunity for practical application and active involvement in the learning process. Teacher-led demonstrations may be informative but do not inherently allow for the same level of student participation and exploration as hands-on experiences do.