NEP 2020: A Push Toward Experiential Learning

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a major milestone in transforming Indian education. It emphasizes experiential, inquiry-based, and holistic learning across all levels.

Key NEP 2020 recommendations include:

• Activity-based learning in early education

• Project work and internships in higher education

• Flexible curricula promoting creativity over memorization

• Skill integration across academic subjects

This policy envisions classrooms where students explore, create, and learn through experience, reflection, and collaboration — a huge step forward for India’s education system.

How Experiential Learning Functions in Classrooms

Experiential learning can be introduced in various imaginative ways. Teachers from different regions of India are already using different methods in their lesson planning to make it more exciting.

Project-Based Learning (PBL) – Students get to work on actual real-world projects such as, model building, case studies, and real problems in the local community.

Simulations and Role-Play – Allows students to experience a complex topic via interactive storytelling and scenarios using various learning tools.

Field Visits / Industrial Tours – Allows students to see the theories discussed in class and how concepts apply to reality.

Internships / Apprenticeships – Help students use what they learnt while in the classroom.

Maker Spaces / Labs – Provide students with the opportunity to develop prototypes and experiment with the technology, design and innovation.

When entering into these experiences, students are developing confidence, creativity and leadership skills, which one would never find in traditional teaching methods.

The Role of Teachers in Experiential Learning

In experiential classrooms, teachers are not just instructors — they are facilitators and mentors. They design activities, guide reflection, and encourage students to think independently.

Effective teachers in experiential setups:

• Encourage questions and curiosity

• Allow space for failure and experimentation

• Provide constructive feedback

• Integrate real-world examples into lessons

This shift empowers both teachers and students to co-create learning experiences that are meaningful and long-lasting.

Technology and Experiential Learning

Technology has become a powerful enabler of experiential education. Digital platforms, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) are now helping students learn through simulation and interaction.

Examples include:

• Virtual science labs for hands-on experiments

• 3D visualization tools for engineering or anatomy lessons

• Gamified learning apps that reward progress

• AI-based tools offering personalized feedback

These innovations ensure that experiential learning is not limited by physical classrooms — it’s accessible anytime, anywhere.

Benefits of Experiential Learning for Students

Students who experience hands-on learning often show significant improvement in both academics and personal growth.

Key Benefits:

• Improved understanding and retention of concepts

• Enhanced creativity and analytical thinking

• Stronger communication and collaboration skills

• Increased confidence and leadership qualities

• Better alignment with real-world applications

Such students become lifelong learners who can adapt and thrive in any environment — a vital skill in today’s competitive world.