Nowadays, competitions in schools are typically scorned. Nevertheless, a large body of research illustrates the numerous advantages of academic competition for learning. For instance, it has been demonstrated that some school and academic competitions improve learning results for kids of all ages. Here are a few ways academic competitions might improve students’ learning outcomes in various topics, including STEM and reading.
Classroom Competitions Support The Growth Attitude
Instead of believing they were born with a definite level of intelligence that they can’t change, students with an attitude of growth believe they can increase their intellect and abilities. These students view setbacks as chances to learn and advance, and this thinking approach is linked to higher success and pleasure in the long run. Classroom competitions set the stage for students to develop a growth mindset and learn from mistakes.
Problem-Solving Skills And Higher-Order Thinking Are Developed Through Academic Competitions
It is simple to believe that students quickly completing assignments possess all the necessary skills. A teacher can also believe these children don’t need much additional development. However, there is no upper limit to metacognitive and cognitive abilities growth. If students get results above the curriculum level, more challenging assignments can be presented using tools such as icasassessments.com to draw focus toward higher-order thinking. Thanks to this, students will be better at advancing their learning.
Competitions as part of extracurricular activities are the best way to challenge high-ability students. They motivate kids to work hard and, frequently in novel and surprising ways, apply the knowledge and abilities they acquire in school to real-world situations.
Students That Engage In Academic Competitions Gain Valuable Stem Skills
90% of occupations during the next two to five years will demand individuals with STEM expertise (science, technology, engineering, and maths). Academic competitions assist students interested in STEM jobs to develop these skills and encourage them to think creatively and develop original solutions to issues. Future success in STEM professions, as well as many other fields, depends on these critical-thinking abilities.
Academic Contests Foster A Passion For Learning
The days of studying by rote and concentrating just on acquiring professional skills to pursue lifetime jobs in particular professions are long gone. Instead, students need to learn soft skills like teamwork, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and agility, which are fundamental and can be used in various fields and specialisations to flourish in this constantly changing world. Students are motivated and forced to pursue learning by this all-encompassing approach to teaching, which is at the core of school contests.
Academic competition lets pupils cultivate their curiosity and desire to learn outside the classroom. One of the most priceless gifts you can give kids and the next generation is a passion for learning that will last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, it’s critical to remember that competition isn’t always beneficial or detrimental. Competition is a positive aspect of life that helps individuals flourish when the right balance is found. But it’s essential to strike the right balance. Students should not feel pressured to excel in all they do, and educators must ensure that every student understands this crucial lesson.
