Why this works

Real, hands-on learning leads to a better understanding of concepts through students' active involvement in constructing knowledge. Students do not gather information passively but apply concepts, draw connections, and reflect. This way, it works in concert with constructivist principles and encourages retention. 

Hands-on learning also enhances intrinsic motivation. Students are more likely to be interested in and curious about meaningful learning activities when they are engaged in the tasks, leading to greater potential for motivation that doesn't come from grades or external rewards. 

Students tend to develop an interest in agricultural classes, for example, by seeing concrete things (e.g., growing plants, completing projects) they can touch, or by feeling something that shows they are not just working on a theoretical concept.

 Hands-on learning adds one more step to higher-order thinking skills. It goes much deeper than rote memorization; students need to analyze situations, make decisions, and solve problems. Such competencies are key to success throughout an academic career and in a future professional career. 

Experiential learning also helps build self-efficacy. Completing tasks successfully instills confidence in students that motivates them to take on the challenge and endure setbacks. The success, therefore, can be attributed to instruction that goes with the natural stages of the students' learning process.