The Power of Interest-Based Learning: Insights from Student Experiences

In the landscape of education, a powerful trend is emerging: students are increasingly seeking opportunities to learn through their interests and passions. As Sir Ken Robinson once said, "The best learning happens when students are deeply engaged with topics that fascinate them. Education should be about igniting passions, not just transmitting information." Survey results from thousands of students at GOA have illuminated this spark, revealing a strong desire for interest-based learning experiences that complement a high school student’s curriculum.

Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist and author, further emphasizes this point: "When we tap into students' interests and passions, we unlock their intrinsic motivation to learn. This is the key to truly transformative education." These insights from educational experts are now being echoed in the voices and choices of students themselves.

Owen, a high school student at Greens Farms Academy with diverse interests ranging from soccer to music, found himself at a crossroads when choosing a summer course. "Do I want to do, maybe, physical sciences? Do I want to do computer science? Do I want to do math?" he pondered. His decision to explore Cybersecurity through an online course led to an unexpected revelation. "I would jump up off the couch like 'Oh my goodness!' when I learned something that I'd always been wondering," Owen enthusiastically shared. "And that happened, like, a lot."

This experience not only ignited a newfound passion but also shaped Owen's academic trajectory. "I am now signed up for two different computer science courses for my junior year that I probably wouldn't have taken before I knew how much I absolutely loved the subject," he explained. "Maybe it's a course [topic] I want to take in college, and that's why I choose what college I go to."

Similarly, Artem from LEAF Academy discovered a genuine interest in marketing through his online courses. "Each day in the marketing course, I have thought, wow, that is really interesting. Generally, the course is amazing, and I learned a lot of things," he reflected. These stories underscore the transformative power of allowing students to explore their interests in an educational setting.

Our student surveys have revealed compelling statistics that support the importance of interest-based learning:

1. Interest Exploration: Over 90% of students reported that online courses allowed them to explore interests they couldn't pursue at their school.

2. Primary Enrollment Reason: The primary reason for enrolling in online courses is to pursue personal interests.

3. Preparing for the Future: 95% of respondents agree or strongly agree that their online course enabled them to delve into areas unavailable at their school, simultaneously preparing them for college.

There are a million different reasons why a student takes a GOA course. It could be about college admissions, flexibility, or the online format. Yet, these numbers paint a clear picture: students are actively seeking opportunities to learn through their passions and interests, even if it means venturing beyond their traditional school offerings.

The trend towards interest-based learning is not isolated to GOA’s platform. As educators ourselves, we are excited to see this trend because we know that sound pedagogical practices can happen in online settings. Educational research has long supported the effectiveness of learning through interests. This approach to education aligns with modern pedagogical theories that emphasize the importance of relevance and relationships in learning. When students can relate their studies to their interests and real-world applications, they are more likely to engage deeply with the material and retain information long-term.

While the focus on interest-based learning is clear, it's important to note the growing role of online education in facilitating these experiences. Our data shows that students are open to online learning opportunities, particularly when it allows them to pursue their interests.

The flexibility and diversity of online courses make them an ideal platform for interest-based learning. Students can access specialized subjects not offered at their local schools, connect with peers who share their passions, and learn at their own pace.

Connecting students to a global community can inspire them to dive deeper into their areas of interest. On a single campus, a student might only find one or two peers who share a passion for cybersecurity. However, when we bring together students from different schools who share that same enthusiasm, we create a broader network of engaged, passionate learners. This kind of connection encourages curiosity and motivates students to explore even further.

As one student, Lindsey B. from Greenhill School, shared: "I am so thankful for GOA because it has allowed me to study psychology even though my school doesn't offer it. After completing two psychology courses, I feel way more prepared to take on my first year of college as a psych major. I wouldn't have been able to reach the level of confidence I have today without the tools offered by GOA."

When students engage in interest-based learning, the effects ripple far beyond the classroom. Our surveys indicate a significant increase in student satisfaction and engagement.

Moreover, students report that these interest-driven courses are shaping their future academic and career paths. As Owen mentioned, his cybersecurity course opened up new possibilities for college majors and potential career paths.

The message from students is clear: they want to learn through their interests and passions. As educators and learning platforms, it's our responsibility to create opportunities that allow students to explore, engage, and excel in areas that captivate them.

For more, see:

• Empowering Students through the GOA Student Ambassador Program

• Embracing Technology to Strengthen Human Connections in Schools

• Are We Ready for the Future? Navigating Change with Purpose

GOA is a nonprofit learning organization that reimagines learning to empower students and educators worldwide. In partnership with our global network of 150 schools, we provide interactive, relationship-driven courses, expert resources, and innovative thinking that help to expand and elevate academic programs. Together, we help students and educators become open to the extraordinary.

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