Which instructional strategy uses real-life scenarios to teach students?

Contextual learning is an instructional strategy that emphasizes the use of real-life scenarios to help students make connections between academic content and its application in everyday life. This approach enhances student engagement by providing relevant contexts for learning, which can lead to increased motivation and deeper understanding of the material. By integrating real-world situations, students can see the direct relevance of what they are learning, allowing for a more meaningful educational experience. Contextual learning encourages students to explore how concepts apply in practical settings, which can help them retain information more effectively and develop critical thinking skills.

In contrast, other instructional strategies, such as direct instruction, typically focus on teacher-led presentations without the integration of real-life applications. Cooperative learning involves students working together in groups but does not necessarily emphasize the real-world context of the material. The flipped classroom method involves students learning content independently, typically through videos or reading, and then engaging in activities during class; it doesn't specifically focus on real-life scenarios as a core component of instruction. This differentiation underscores why contextual learning is the correct choice for this particular question.