Curriculum Framework
Experiential Learning
Overview
Experiential learning is learning through experience, trial-and-error, and reflection. Learners practise perseverance in the learning cycle through taking learning risks, making mistakes, and applying corrective feedback. Learning through experiences can be community-based, grounded in skill building, and a part of career preparation and development (i.e., the journey through life, learning, and work).
Elements
Experiential learning activities allow learners to engage in concrete learning through the direct experience of observing, learning, or performing work and learning tasks in the workplace, during or outside of school hours, online, or in the community. This type of learning allows learners to reflect personally and expand their areas of interest. It provides opportunities to explore various career options, increase knowledge, and develop skills and attitudes that will enable learners to contribute positively to their community.
Learning is achieved through experience, trial-and-error, and reflection. Learners practise perseverance in the learning cycle through taking learning risks, making mistakes, and applying corrective feedback. Curricular-based learning through experiences can be community-based, grounded in skill building, and a part of career preparation and personal development.
In experiential learning, learners engage in a concrete experience that is connected to the world around them (e.g., organizing a vote on an important topic, developing a scientific observation, or using a recipe to bake). They have the opportunity to demonstrate agency in their world and are impacted from the experience.
When successfully engaged in experiential learning, learners:
- Can articulate why they are engaged in the authentic experiential learning activity and the connections between their learning and the world around them (classroom, school, and/or larger community);
- Progress through the different stages (conceptualization, application, activity, and reflection) of the experiential learning cycle of knowing, doing, and being;
- Have voice and choice in the planning and demonstration of their learning/projects with access to their teacher and other resources to support their learning goals; and
- Participate in a final reflection and sharing of the experience and lessons learned.
Tools
- myBlueprint.ca | Virtual platform where learners self-assess, set goals, and gather evidence of learning
- Who am I Portfolio Checklist | myBlueprint
- Padlet | A fun, easy to use tool to collect learner thinking and learning
- Flip | A free video discussion app
- Experiential Learning and the Reflection Process | A resource to support the reflection process of the experiential learning cycle
- Career Connected Learning | Learning modules including a module to support experiential learning
Resources to Browse
- Future NB Success Stories
- Centres of Excellence | Centres connect learners to expert knowledge through virtual and experiential learning
- University of New Brunswick Office of Experiential Education
- Theory of Experiential Learning | A very concise slide deck that highlights theories and applications
- Kolb’s Learning Styles and Experiential Learning Cycle
- Stop and Think: Teaching Students to Reflect
- ASD-E Experiential Learning Flyer
- NB Jobs Experiential Learning Resources
- Meet the Future: How employers gain from helping young people get career ready
- Expecting the Best from Everyone
Resources to Read
- Pedagogy of Experiential Education
- Policy 307: Experiential Learning
- Best Practices in Experiential Learning | A guide for implementing experiential learning in your classroom
- Experiential Learning Blog | Innovation education ideas for K-12 teachers