Experiential Learning
Experiential Learning
We at Experiential Pathways aims student learning by doing, discovering, reflecting
and applying. Through these experiences students develop communication skills and
self-confidence and gain and strengthen decision-making skills by responding to and
solving real world problems and processes.
What is Experiential Learning?
Experiential learning is an educational approach that prioritizes learning through direct experience. Unlike traditional classroom methods, this approach involves immersing students in various environments where they engage in active learning through hands-on activities, reflection, and applying their knowledge in real-world contexts.
The foundation of experiential learning is the belief that individuals learn most effectively when they are actively engaged in the learning process and can apply what they’ve learned in practical situations.
The process begins with learners participating in a concrete experience, such as a hands-on activity or simulation. They then reflect on this experience, considering what they have learned and how it connects to their existing knowledge. Afterward, they conceptualize their observations, forming connections and generating new ideas. Finally, they apply their new understanding through active experimentation, leading to further concrete experiences and perpetuating the learning cycle.
We believe in five-stage model describes an experiential learning stages: 1) Focus;
2) Action; 3) Support; 4) Feedback; 5) Debrief. Feedback and support are critical
throughout the process from the moment of initial action through the conclusion of
the learning experience.
Benefits of Experiential Learning
Industry research consistently demonstrates that school students greatly benefit from engaging in diverse and enriching experiential learning opportunities. The advantages of this approach include heightened student motivation and engagement, improved retention of knowledge and skills, and the development of critical thinking abilities. Additionally, experiential learning fosters social and emotional growth, personal development, and enhances teamwork and communication skills, leading to transformational learning experiences.
Extensive Experiential Learning Activities
Experiential Pathways provides an array of experiential learning activities through our school travel programs, emphasizing outdoor education, service learning, and cultural immersion. Our program leaders guide students through the four stages of the experiential learning cycle, using various reflective activities to help them test and apply new understandings through hands-on experiences.
Once students return home, they can continue their learning journey with a comprehensive suite of post-program activities designed to sustain and extend the learning cycle well into the future.
Social and Emotional Learning
At Experiential Pathways, we believe that tackling global challenges like inequality, climate change, and environmental decline requires leaders and institutions grounded in strong values. People must care deeply about one another and the planet, equipped with the knowledge, skills, relationships, and resources to drive change. Our educational travel programs are designed to nurture the following ten core social and emotional learning (SEL) themes:
Compassion: Demonstrating kindness toward others and the planet, and a desire to alleviate suffering. Recognizing the intrinsic value of all people, plants, and animals, while valuing diverse perspectives and showing deep respect for others’ feelings, thoughts, and experiences.
Connection: Embracing a relational outlook that values interdependencies within societies and between people and nature. A deep respect for the intrinsic worth of all beings, and a commitment to partnership and positive change.
Critical Thinking: Understanding how power, inequality, and injustice shape the world. Possessing knowledge of global issues and connecting local stories and struggles to broader systemic issues. Although often seen as an outcome of SEL, we emphasize critical thinking as central to our focus on global citizenship, sustainability education, and active citizenship.
Curiosity and Open-Mindedness: An eagerness to learn, travel, and seek adventure. Respecting differences, appreciating diversity, and welcoming new experiences and ideas.
Intercultural Competency: The ability to behave and communicate effectively across cultures, view issues from diverse perspectives, and collaborate with diverse groups.
Leadership and Resilience: The determination to overcome challenges and setbacks. The capacity to think and act independently and responsibly, to stand behind one’s beliefs, and to take calculated risks.
Lifelong Learning and Growth Mindset: A passion for learning and the belief that intelligence and abilities can grow with effort. The ability to assess personal strengths and weaknesses and identify areas for improvement.
Open-mindedness: An eagerness and curiosity to learn, respect for differences, appreciation of diversity, and a willingness to embrace new experiences and ideas.
Reflexivity: The ability to critically consider one’s place in the world and the impact of one’s actions, reflecting on how social and cultural norms shape perceptions. The desire to re-evaluate past opinions or decisions and use self-awareness to better relate to and communicate with others.
Teamwork: Enthusiasm for collaborative action and striving for the collective good, along with the ability to manage and resolve conflict effectively.