The Retail Experience for Active Learning (REAL) Experience

Abstract

The Retail Experience for Active Learning (REAL) was an innovative programme to investigate if students learn better when they are able to make meaningful connections between the school curriculum and their learning experiences at real workplace environment. REAL was implemented with the support of local retailers in Singapore to provide an authentic learning environment for students to experience the authentic customer service environment. Ninety-six Year 9 Elements of Business Skills (EBS) students participated in REAL and completed two phases of workplace attachment where they were given the opportunity to apply business knowledge and skills learnt in school at real workplace environment. It was found that the REAL internship was associated with increased personal relevance towards the business subject, greater self-confidence and better problem-solving skills.