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What is the ‘Flow’ State and how it enables immersive learning

Imagine your child coming home from school, excitedly sharing how they spent hours engrossed in creating a solar system model or perfecting a new piano piece, completely unaware of time passing. This transformative state, where time seems to stretch and focus becomes laser-sharp, is known as "flow". It’s a captivating experience felt by athletes mastering their sports, artists creating their masterpieces, and anyone who finds joy in being completely absorbed in their passion.

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Dr. Suneel Thummala
Posted on 13 Aug 2024

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How does one get into the ‘Flow’ state?

 

Flow is a state of complete immersion in an activity. Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi describes it as “the state in which people are so involved in an activity that nothing else seems to matter; the experience itself is so enjoyable that people will do it even at great cost, for the sheer sake of doing it.”

 

Getting into flow requires a balance of many variables:

 

  1.  Clear Goals: Knowing what you’re aiming for.
  2.  Skills: Having the know-how to do the task.
  3.  Feedback: Understanding how well you’re doing.
  4.  Direction: Knowing where you’re heading.
  5.  Challenges: Facing tasks that are tough but doable.
  6.  Focus: Being in a distraction-free zone.
  7.  Just-Right Difficulty: Balancing the challenge to avoid boredom or anxiety.

 

When children learn to get into flow, it becomes a lifelong habit.

 

They are hyper-focused, everything comes naturally, and they perform at their best. It's not just about productivity; it’s about finding joy in the process and feeling deeply satisfied. Flow brings out creativity, enhances performance, and leaves them feeling fulfilled.

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With flow, you bring subjects and lessons to life.

 

Whether building intricate models, solving complex problems, or exploring new artistic techniques, deep engagement transforms learning from a task into an adventure. Students become more curious, more resilient and more passionate about their studies.

In a world filled with distractions, activities that induce flow are crucial. This approach not only makes learning more enjoyable but also helps students build positive habits and manage stress. By concentrating on one task at a time, students can enter a state of flow that shapes academic excellence and propels them toward their goals and dreams.

 

It’s the perfect environment for kids to learn.

 

Creating an environment that fosters flow involves encouraging inquiry-driven learning, where students take charge of their educational journey. Each day becomes an opportunity for independent exploration, with curiosity guiding them through a seamless flow of discovery. Beyond rote memorisation, a focus on conceptual understanding allows students to dive deep into subjects.

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It translates into meaningful action.

 

Encouraging meaningful action based on learning experiences is essential. Like a river that shapes the landscape, students engage in reflective practices, fostering self-awareness and a sense of responsibility. Their journey is about understanding as well as making a meaningful contribution to the world.

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How does one get into the ‘Flow’ state?

 

Flow is a state of complete immersion in an activity. Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi describes it as “the state in which people are so involved in an activity that nothing else seems to matter; the experience itself is so enjoyable that people will do it even at great cost, for the sheer sake of doing it.”

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