What is more impactful on young children's learning, according to educational principles?

Research in educational principles indicates that young children's learning is most significantly impacted by hands-on experiences, which can be encapsulated in "what they do." Active participation allows children to engage with their environment in meaningful ways, fostering deeper understanding and retention of information.

When children engage in activities, they are not only absorbing information but also applying it in real contexts, which enhances their learning. Practical experiences and play-based learning encourage exploration and experimentation, which are critical for cognitive development at this age. This experiential learning process promotes critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and enhances their ability to remember and apply what they learn in various contexts.

Although auditory input (what they hear), visual stimuli (what they see), and reading materials have their place in education, these methods often lack the same level of engagement and personal interaction that active participation provides. While hearing, seeing, and reading can all contribute to learning, they do not typically match the benefits derived from active involvement. Interaction and manipulation of materials allow children to construct knowledge through experience, making it an essential aspect of their educational development.