The Benefits of Real-World Learning for Future Leaders
Think back to a moment when you learned something new by actually doing it rather than just hearing or reading about it. How did that experience leave a lasting impression?
Nowadays, students encounter various forms of learning, with some leaving a deeper impression than others. One of these unique forms of learning is Real-World Learning. In Real-World Learning, students fully immerse themselves in experiences outside their usual school environment, learning interpersonal life skills through hands-on activities. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about Real-World Learning and how we integrate it into our new summer camp: Swiss Teen Summit.
What is Real-World Learning?
You can differentiate Real-World Learning by practical application vs. theoretical knowledge:
Real-World Learning: Focuses on practical experiences that mirror real-life scenarios, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in tangible ways. This approach emphasises hands-on activities, such as outdoor adventures and interactive workshops, to develop applicable skills like leadership and entrepreneurship.
Traditional Learning: Primarily centres on theoretical knowledge delivered through lectures and textbooks, with less emphasis on practical application. Students often learn concepts in a classroom setting without directly experiencing their real-world implications.
In Real-World Learning there are some key elements that are essential for the best learning experience.
Practical application: Applying skills practically is one of the most important factors. By placing students in situations where they must use various skills such as setting goals, optimisation, communication, networking, and collaboration, they learn how to navigate group processes and handle different situations. For example, students can conduct an interview with a CEO of a successful company, allowing them to draft questions and communicate these effectively, all while also gaining insight into what it takes to run a successful business.
Problem solving: By placing students in situations where they must solve a problem, you present them with a challenge. They need to apply skills that require critical and creative thinking. An example of such a problem could be building a giant bamboo pyramid as a group project.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Overlapping different subject areas creates value for students because it allows them to see connections between fields and thereby gain a better understanding of the context of their learning. An example of this is having students write a story and then think about how they might market this story to a specific target audience. This interdisciplinary approach brings creative writing together with marketing.
Why Real-World Learning is Essential for Future Leaders?
There are a number of reasons why
Real-World Learning is essential for
developing leadership skills.
Development of Essential Soft Skills: Through real-world learning experiences, students use essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability. These skills are vital for effective leadership, as they enable individuals to work collaboratively, manage conflicts, and inspire others. Participating in group activities and challenges fosters a sense of accountability and encourages students to develop their interpersonal skills in dynamic environments.
Exposure to Diverse Perspectives: Real-world learning often involves collaboration with peers from different backgrounds and cultures, as well as interactions with industry professionals. This exposure broadens students' perspectives and enhances their understanding of global issues. By learning to navigate diverse viewpoints and work effectively within teams, students become more empathetic and culturally aware leaders, better equipped to address complex challenges in a globalised world.
Encouragement of Innovation and Creativity: Real-world learning environments often challenge students to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to complex problems. By engaging in hands-on projects and real-life scenarios, students are encouraged to explore creative approaches and take calculated risks. This fosters a mindset of innovation, which is essential for effective leadership in today's rapidly changing world. Leaders who can think creatively and adapt their strategies are better equipped to inspire their teams and drive meaningful change.
Real-World Learning at the Swiss Teen Summit
The Swiss Teen Summit provides Real-World Learning opportunities for students through several key components:
Interactive Workshops with Industry Experts: During this summer camp students participate in hands-on workshops led by professionals from various fields, including CEOs and innovators. These workshops cover essential topics such as media training, branding, and storytelling, allowing students to apply their learning in practical scenarios and gain insights directly from industry leaders.
Outdoor Adventures that Promote Teamwork and Resilience: The summer camp includes thrilling outdoor activities like glacier expeditions, canyoning, and rock climbing. These adventures are designed to challenge students physically and mentally, fostering teamwork and resilience as they navigate unpredictable environments and work together to achieve common goals.
Collaboration with Swiss Organisations and Entrepreneurs: Students engage with established Swiss companies, NGOs, and startups through interactive challenges and corporate simulations. This collaboration provides them with real-world challenges to solve, enhancing their understanding of the business landscape while building valuable networks and insights from experienced professionals.
Through these opportunities, students can enjoy a summer full of fun and learning while acquiring essential skills they need to succeed as future leaders, creatives, or entrepreneurs.
Real World Learning in Crans-Montana, Switzerland
Les Roches College in Crans-Montana, Switzerland serves as the stunning location for the Swiss Teen Summit. Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, this prestigious institution offers a breathtaking backdrop that enhances the camp's immersive learning experience. Our Campus Offers:
A Scenic Environment: Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush landscapes, the college provides an inspiring setting for outdoor adventures, fostering a sense of exploration and adventure among students.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Les Roches is equipped with modern amenities like a media studio, a swimming pool and various restaurants that support a dynamic learning environment, allowing students to engage in both academic and practical activities seamlessly.
Cultural Hub: Crans-Montana is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its vibrant culture and history. This location enables students to explore Swiss traditions, cuisine, and innovation, enriching their overall educational journey.
Les Roches College in Crans-Montana is an ideal location for real-world learning, offering students unique opportunities to engage with their surroundings. The camp features thrilling outdoor adventures like glacier expeditions and canyoning, where students develop teamwork and resilience while navigating the stunning Swiss Alps.
Additionally, the proximity to renowned Swiss companies, such as luxury watchmakers like Hublot and top-tier banks, allows for interactive workshops and corporate simulations that provide invaluable insights into the business world. Collaborations with local entrepreneurs and organisations further enrich the experience, giving students a taste of innovation and cultural immersion that prepares them for future leadership roles.
Conclusion
Real-world learning is beneficial for future leaders because it equips them with practical skills and experiences that enhance their problem-solving abilities, foster adaptability, and develop essential soft skills through hands-on activities and collaboration with industry experts.
As we wrap up our exploration of real-world learning, we invite you to reflect on your own educational journey. Consider how hands-on experiences can enrich your understanding and skills, just as they do for students at the Swiss Teen Summit.
Dates:
14th July - 27th July 2025
Ages:
14 to 17-year-olds
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