Experiential Learning (XPL) courses must include the following characteristics and address the following student learning outcomes.
Course and Partnership Characteristics
- Experiential learning classes must offer formal, supervised settings in which educators purposefully engage with students in direct experience and focused reflection to increase knowledge, develop skills, clarify values and utilize theory in applied practice. Courses that involve activities outside the classroom must provide adequate preparation and support for such activities, like providing transportation to off-campus sites or instruction in community safety.
- Course-specific learning outcomes will reflect the goals of the specific discipline(s) and be met through hands-on experience. Examples of the kinds of course that are likely to involve experiential learning include, but are not limited to, clinical education, cooperative education, field-work, internships, practicums, service learning, study abroad programs and primary research.
Student Learning Outcomes
Learning outcomes for students in experiential learning courses should include:
- Application of ideas, concepts, and skills developed at the university, departmental or course level(s) to new and different contexts;
- Active reflection on the meaning of their experience through journal entries, blog posts, discussion boards, discussion groups, team meetings, sketches, field notes, or similar activities;
- Production of a final project, paper, presentation or creative work that provides a synthesis of their experience and research.