Experiential Learning

Experiential learning bridges theory and practice by engaging students in hands-on, curricular- and non-curricular-based activities that enhance skill development and deepen learning. This approach empowers students to apply academic knowledge in real-world contexts, fostering critical thinking, adaptability, confidence, and adaptability. Reflection plays a crucial role in this process, allowing students to analyze their experiences, refine their approaches, and make meaningful connections to their academic and professional growth.

Work-integrated learning (WIL) extends experiential education beyond the classroom, offering students real-world opportunities through internships, field placements, service learning, and applied research. Strong partnerships with industry and community organizations ensure these experiences align with workforce needs and academic programs. Effective implementation of experiential learning relies on well-designed activities, appropriate assessment strategies, and institutional support, providing students with structured pathways to develop competencies and successfully transition into their careers.

Foundations of Experiential Learning

Experiential learning integrates both curricular and non-curricular activities that provide opportunities for students to engage with real-world challenges. These activities include field studies, interactive simulations, project-based assignments, internships, and extracurricular activities. Through both structured coursework and informal experiences, students can develop transferable skills and gain practical insights into their field of study.

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Curricular & Non-Curricular Integration

Experiential learning spans both academic and non-academic settings. Students engage with real-world applications through coursework (like lab work and case studies) as well as extracurricular initiatives (such as volunteer projects or student clubs) that reinforce their learning.
Skill Development & Knowledge Mobilization

Experiential learning helps students develop transferable skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, confidence, and collaboration. It also facilitates knowledge mobilization by applying academic concepts to real-world contexts.
Reflective Practice

Reflection is central to the experiential learning process. By reviewing and analyzing their experiences, students gain deeper insights into their learning, understand their strengths and challenges, and refine their approaches to future tasks.

Work-Integrated Learning

Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) provides students with opportunities to apply academic knowledge in real-world settings, through internships, field placements, service learning, and applied research. Strong industry and community partnerships ensure these experiences align with academic programs and workforce needs, while preparation, mentorship, and support systems promote student success and growth.

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Types of Work-Integrated Learning

There are nine (9) types of WIL, including well-established offerings at CNC such as internships, field placements, service learning, and applied research. Each offering provides unique ways to bridge classroom learning with practical experience.
Building Partnerships

Developing sustainable collaborations with employers, community organizations, and institutions is essential for creating meaningful WIL experiences that align with academic programs and address workforce needs, ensuring that both students and partners benefit from the partnership.
Enhancing Student Success

Ensuring student success in WIL requires a focus on key factors such as thorough preparation, ongoing mentorship, reflective practices, and structured support systems, all of which help students maximize their learning and foster professional growth during their experiences.

Implementing Experiential Learning

Integrating experiential learning into courses enhances student engagement and fosters skill development. This approach focuses on designing meaningful learning activities, using effective assessment methods, and leveraging institutional resources to support the integration of hands-on learning experiences within academic programs.

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Designing Experiential Learning Activities

Experiential learning activities, such as simulations, case studies, project-based learning, and real-world problem-solving, provide students with opportunities to apply knowledge in practical settings. These activities are aligned with course objectives and student learning outcomes to bridge theory with practice.
Assessment & Evaluation

Assessment methods for experiential learning include performance-based assessments, reflective assignments, portfolios, and competency-based evaluations. These strategies measure both the process and the outcomes of student learning, offering a holistic approach to evaluating hands-on experiences.
Institutional Support & Faculty Resources:

Successful implementation of experiential learning is supported by access to institutional resources, external partnerships, funding opportunities, and professional development initiatives. These elements help to build a strong foundation for integrating experiential education into academic settings.

Next Steps

Dig Deeper

Browse the Experiential Learning Resources folder in SharePoint for in-depth tools and information on assessment strategies and best practices for integrating experiential learning into your course or program.

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Need tailored support? Schedule a one-on-one consultation with a CTL member to discuss your experiential learning plans, troubleshoot challenges, and receive personalized recommendations.

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Experiential Learning

Foundations of Experiential Learning

CTL - Foundations of Experiential Learning

Work-Integrated Learning

CTL - Work-Integrated Learning

Implementing Experiential Learning

CTL - Implementing Experiential Learning

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