Why students should be solving real-world problems in school
- KEY academy
- Nov 29
- 5 min read
When learning moves beyond memorisation to real-world action, students discover their capability, purpose, and power to create change.
“ Education shouldn’t end at passing exams; it should prepare students to understand and shape the world around them.”
- Chioma Ogugua, co-learner in the Roots learning group (ages 5 - 7 years).
Introduction
As educators, we often talk about curiosity as the heart of learning. But sometimes, it takes a single moment to see it in action. “Why can’t we make a clock that talks, so children who don’t know how to tell time can still know what time it is?”, one of my students once asked during a learning session.
That single question turned into a design challenge - complete with sketches, voice recordings, and prototype-building sessions. But more importantly, it reminded me of something profound: children are natural problem-solvers. They’re imaginative, curious, and remarkably inventive when given the freedom to explore ideas that matter.
It’s a far cry from the old classroom question: “When will I ever use this in real life?”
And honestly, they’re right to ask. Education shouldn’t end at passing exams; it should prepare students to understand and shape the world around them. That’s exactly what we aim to do at KEY academy, where learning happens through real-world projects that connect knowledge to action.
The world our children are growing up in is fast-changing, complex, and filled with challenges - from climate change to technology shifts. Employers, leaders, and communities now seek people who can think critically, work collaboratively, and create meaningful solutions.
According to recent findings from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), students who engage in problem-based learning develop stronger critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills - precisely the traits that
define success in the 21st century.
Benefits of real-world problem solving That single question about a talking clock sparked more than a classroom project - it sparked curiosity, collaboration, and confidence. It’s one of many moments that remind us why solving real-world problems matters so much in education. Here’s why this approach transforms learning.
1. Learning becomes relevant
Students no longer wonder, “Why does this matter?” When they see their lessons connected to real challenges - like creating a recycling campaign, designing a business idea, or building a model - they begin to understand that what they learn has real, practical value.
Research from the Buck Institute for Education supports this approach, showing that project-based learning increases engagement and helps students retain information longer because they learn by doing, not just memorising.
2. Imputes critical thinking & creativity
Real-world problems push students far beyond memorisation. They spark curiosity, imagination, and innovation. When faced with a challenge, students get to think through possible solutions, weigh different options, and sometimes even test their ideas. This process builds both critical thinking and creativity in ways that traditional lessons simply cannot.
One of our most exciting projects, “Solving Problems, One Invention at a Time,” brought this to life for students aged 5 - 7. They studied great inventors throughout history and then became inventors themselves. Their ideas were bold yet practical: a talking clock for children who cannot tell time, a machine that cleans oil spillages from the ocean to protect marine life, and even an external airbag for cars to reduce damage during collisions.
Through this project, students discovered that problems aren’t roadblocks - they’re opportunities to invent and create something new. This mindset, seeing challenges as possibilities, will stay with them for life.
According to a 2021 Edutopia report, hands-on learning experiences like these build confidence and a sense of ownership in young students; qualities that set them up for lifelong success.
3. Helps students notice problems around them
Another benefit of real-world problem-solving is that it trains students to observe their environment with fresh eyes. Instead of waiting for adults to define problems, they begin to notice everyday challenges and imagine practical solutions.
A cracked phone screen inspires the idea of a protective pouch with sensors.
A dirty gutter sparks thoughts of a machine that could automatically clean it.
Reckless drivers prompt ideas for devices that might help enforce traffic rules.
Jean Piaget, educational psychologist, emphasised that children learn best through active discovery. When students identify and tackle real problems around them, they’re not just learning - they’re constructing knowledge through experience. This principle lies at the heart of our approach at KEY academy, where learning begins with curiosity and leads to meaningful action.
4. Prepares students for future careers The future of work belongs to problem-solvers. Students who face real-world challenges early on develop adaptability, resilience, and entrepreneurial thinking - qualities that serve them well, whether they’re working in a team, leading a project, or building their own ventures.
The World Economic Forum (2023) lists analytical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity as the top three skills employers value most today - a clear reminder that education must prioritise these competencies from an early age.
Every project at KEY academy is seen as practice for the future. Each time students design, test, and refine their ideas, they’re not only learning lessons for today’s classroom but building the mindset they’ll need for tomorrow’s world.
5. Develops teamwork and communication
Real-world projects are rarely solo efforts. Students learn to collaborate, share ideas, present solutions, and sometimes even test them within their community. These experiences build confidence, communication, and social skills that are just as vital as academic knowledge.
Working together teaches them how to listen, negotiate, and appreciate different perspectives - skills they’ll carry into every stage of life.
Inspiration from thought leaders
As Sir Ken Robinson, world-renowned education expert and author of The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything, once said:
“The role of a creative leader is not to have all the ideas; it’s to create a culture where everyone can have ideas and feel that they’re valued.”
As educators, it’s important we echo this philosophy. Through real-world problem-solving, let’s raise future leaders, innovators, and changemakers who see challenges as invitations to create.
Conclusion
Students shouldn’t have to wait until adulthood to start solving real-world problems. Schools can, and should, be spaces where they learn, experiment, and make meaningful contributions to their world.
At KEY academy, we’ve seen firsthand how even our youngest students can rise to the occasion when given the opportunity. Whether they’re inventing talking clocks or designing ways to protect the planet, each project reminds us that children are capable of more than we imagine.
After all, the future belongs not to those who only memorise facts, but to those who can apply knowledge to solve the problems that matter most!
Written by Chioma Ogugua, co-learner in the Roots learning group (ages 5 - 7 years).
References
Mo, J. (2017), “Collaborative problem solving”, PISA in Focus, No. 78, OECD Publishing, Paris, https://doi.org/10.1787/cdae6d2e-en.
OECD. (n.d.). Teaching, learning and assessing creative and critical thinking skills. OECD Publishing. https://www.oecd.org/en/about/projects/teaching-learning-and-assessing-creative-and-critical-thinking-skills.html
Boss, S. (2013). How Project-Based Learning Builds 21st-Century Skills. Edutopia.
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