How authentic learning benefits learners

November 1, 20232 min read

NIVA Kindergarten students using their sense of touch to guess the object — Kindergarten students exploring the sense of touch and textures through a blindfolded game

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What is Authentic Learning?

Authentic learning is about connecting what students learn in school to real life instead of just memorizing facts and information from books. For example, students may work on projects studying real problems in their communities, or do role play activities that simulate adulthood. Authentic learning activities are active and hands-on. They involve students working collaboratively, thinking critically, and developing solutions.

This helps students learn how to communicate, problem-solve, think independently and be creative in preparation for life after school. The goal is to engage students in relevant, meaningful experiences that empower them with skills for the real world, not just fill their heads with academic facts.

Research shows authentic learning benefits students by:

Making school more interesting and motivating
Helping students remember concepts better
Teaching transferable skills like critical thinking
Allowing kids to direct their own learning through exploration
Helping students prepare for real life challenges in their next stages of life

Examples of Authentic Learning

What does authentic learning look like day-to-day? Here are some examples:

Doing experiments in science class instead of worksheets
Creating projects like building models, films, or presentations
Going on field trips to places like farms, courts, or theaters
Solving real-world problems like improving recycling at school
Internships at local businesses to gain work experience
Roleplaying situations like mock trials or model UN meetings

This hands-on approach sticks with students longer than just memorizing facts!

Why NIVA Uses Authentic Learning

At NIVA American International School, authentic learning is woven into our curriculum from nursery to 12th grade where our teachers co-design projects driven by student interests and input.

We focus on the process - not just the final product, which means that mistakes become teachable moments and students direct their own explorations with teacher guidance.

Field trips, internships, collaborative projects, and more make NIVA an engaging place to learn. We prepare students for college and career success by making education fun and connected to the real world.

Learn More About NIVA’s Approach

Does authentic learning align with your hopes for your child’s education? Reach out to learn more about NIVA’s student-centered approach. Or better yet, join us on a school tour.

Call us at 02-948-4605 | 095-264-9445 or email info@niva.ac.th to take the next step in finding the right fit for your child. We can’t wait to meet you!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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What curriculum does NIVA use?

NIVA uses an American curriculum based on the California common core standards.

What are the class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios? What is the average class size and how many students are there per class?

We typically have smaller class sizes and lower student-to-teacher ratios than Thai schools. Class sizes may range from 15 to 26 students, with student-to-teacher ratios ranging from 13:1 to 20:1.

What are the qualifications of the teachers and staff?

Teachers and staff at NIVA hold advanced degrees and have experience teaching in international or multicultural settings.

What facilities and resources are available for students, such as libraries, sports facilities, and technology?

Please check out pictures of our beautiful campus here. You can also book a school tour to come visit our campus with your family!

Do we have a program to help students who cannot speak English?

Yes, we do. Our English Language Learner (ELL) program is designed to lay foundations for student who don't speak English with the goal of getting them ready to join our mainstream program. This program is available to all students, including those coming from Thai schools and Chinese-speaking families.

What extracurricular activities (ECAs) does the school offer?

NIVA offers a wide range of extracurricular activities including sports, arts, music, drama, and community service. Click on the following links to see a sample of ECAs we offer for elementary school and secondary school. Please note that the ECAs listed here are examples of what we typically offer. This list may change according to student interest.

What is the school's policy on student safety and security?

NIVA has policies and procedures in place to ensure student safety and security, including protocols for emergency situations, visitor management, and student supervision. You can read more about our Child Protection Policy here.

What AP courses does NIVA offer?

Please click here to see AP courses we offer. Please keep in mind that each class must have met the required minimum number of students registered it to take place.

How does the AP program benefit the students when they go to university?

The Advanced Placement (AP) program can benefit students when they go to university by providing them with college-level coursework in high school, which can help prepare them for the rigor and expectations of university-level courses.
Students who take AP courses may be eligible to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both, which can help reduce the cost of college tuition and allow students to graduate earlier.
Additionally, having AP courses on a student's transcript can demonstrate to universities that they are willing to challenge themselves academically and may improve their chances of being accepted into competitive programs.

Do students receive a diploma for AP?

There are two types of AP diploma:

AP Capstone Diploma: The requirements for receiving this diploma is as follows: AP Capstone 1 (Seminar), AP Capstone 2 (Research), four other AP exam scores (all scores have to be at least 3 out of 5).
AP International Diploma (APID): A globally recognized certificate awarded to students who display exceptional achievement across a variety of disciplines. Five AP exams with scores of 3 or above is required (different subjects have different requirements).

How does the school help students with scholarships abroad?

Our guidance counselor works tirelessly to help our grade 11 and 12 students apply for scholarships abroad. We help students prepare and send their applications, guide them with the student interview questions, and assist with all the documents needed for their choice universities.

What happens when a student changes from IB curriculum (or others) to an American Curriculum?

When a student transfers to NIVA, our guidance counselor and registrar will assess and determine subjects that can be matched and transfered to our system. We will then guide the student through the process of developing a plan to acquire the remaining necessary credits and classes for graduation.