Using Participation-Based Activities to Reduce Student Stress and Improve Learning

Nearly half of all students experience daily stress due to their school-related responsibilities. The pressure of academic workload is often cited as a leading cause, with high-point assignments, tests, quizzes, and homework all contributing to this burden.

It’s estimated that approximately 90% of schoolwork is graded based solely on effort, with letter grades reflecting a student’s ability to demonstrate what they have learned in class. However, for many students, this learning and assessment approach may not be effective.

Participation-based activities, which make up the remaining 10% of school assignments, offer a unique and valuable alternative.

Unlike traditional assignments, these activities cater to diverse learning styles, including auditory, visual, reading + writing, and kinesthetic.

For instance, a debate mock trial engages auditory learners through teacher instructions and argumentation, visual learners through imagery, and encourages reading + writing learners to take notes actively.

Meanwhile, kinesthetic learners benefit from active participation in the trial, fostering a comprehensive learning experience that traditional assignments may struggle to provide.

Furthermore, participation-based activities promote flexibility and creativity in the learning process, which is often lacking in conventional assignments.

A compelling example is the opportunity to produce a live radio podcast featuring historical figures. This task not only allowed for creative freedom but also imparted knowledge in an engaging and enjoyable manner.

By deviating from standard assignments, such activities not only provide a welcome respite from typical schoolwork but also positively influence students’ perceptions of their education.

Participating in such activities has been incredibly rewarding, allowing for a refreshing change from the daily grind and promoting a more positive outlook on learning. For instance, asking students to share more about a particular topic in the radio podcast project not only provided them with an enjoyable experience but also enhanced their understanding of the topic.

Participation-based activities present a compelling alternative to traditional school assignments, offering a more comprehensive and engaging learning experience. By catering to diverse learning styles and fostering creativity, these activities can alleviate student stress and redefine the way students perceive their education.