Mini-Society and Yess! Learning Theory in Action

Abstract

This analysis endeavours to demonstrate the mechanism by which incorporation of validated learning principles into a curriculum can maximise its potential effectiveness and impact on both cognitive and affective outcomes. The intent of this demonstration is to highlight for prospective curriculum innovators the importance of having a solid learning theory infrastructure in their target curricula. First, the article describes the experience-based Mini-Society framework and its embedded entrepreneurship curriculum, YESS! (Youth Empowerment and Self-Sufficiency). The analysis which follows explores how four research-informed learning theories were incorporated into the foundation of Mini-Society and YESS! and how their incorporation influenced the impact of these programmes.