The Benefits of Authentic Learning in English Language Arts Classes

In education, it is important that teaching and learning evolve alongside an ever-changing world. Educators must teach 21st century skills such as inquiry, independence, flexible and persistent thinking, and student motivation and engagement to help students prepare for the real world after graduation. It is imperative that educators begin to challenge students to learn within class settings that offer opportunities for real-world learning, even if confined to the physical classroom setting. The purpose of this action research study was to examine the benefits of authentic learning opportunities in English Language Arts classrooms while exploring the need for teaching life-long skills. Most of the students involved in the study acknowledged their interest in being stakeholders in the learning process and felt compelled to engage more when choices appealed to them. The study served as a platform for future authentic learning opportunities and the benefits related to creating real-world scenarios with the potential for cross-curricular collaboration.