What is Experiential Learning?
"Experiential learning is any learning that supports students in applying their knowledge and conceptual understanding to real-world problems or situations where the instructor directs and facilitates learning. The classroom, laboratory, or studio can serve as a setting for experiential learning through embedded activities such as case and problem-based studies, guided inquiry, simulations, experiments, or art projects (Wurdinger & Carlson, 2010)."
At the middle school level, learning needs to be fun and flexible like the students. Yet, in many schools across the country, students still do not have the opportunity to go on field trips which enhance their studies, often due to budget concerns or simply a lack of will to change traditional learning practices. A six hour school day in which students spend their time sitting at individual desks waiting for the bell to ring is not a fun learning experience for the student nor the teacher. Instead, students need a balance between structure and creativity.
Additionally, experiential learning does not have to be limited to activities beyond the classroom. My goal is to engage students in a classroom setting that is fun and flexible while still educational. I shudder at the thought of lecturing about the American Revolution to students sitting in rows of desks who are relegated to using an outdated textbook. Instead, I dream of having a classroom where students are moving around and creating interesting projects on the subject matter. Experiential Learning, Expeditionary Learning, and Service Learning are all ways in which teachers, teams, and schools can help students be conscious citizens who take an active role in their education. Learning can be fun and that is what I want to teach my students so that when they leave my classroom they are inspired to continue their education. I am optimistic that educators, schools, and communities working together can make field trips a more prevalent learning practice in schools today.
Educators such as Paul Arabie, have designed their lessons plans to incorporate experiential learning. Tailored to various intelligence types, he has found a way to make history relevant to students today. In fact, studies have shown that middle level students in particular benefit greatly from this kind of hands-on learning. For example, one study showed that students who visited a museum featuring art and history they studied in the classroom, not only retained the information better but also showed an increase in critical thinking skills, historical empathy, and likelihood to continue further inquiry on their own time.
King Middle School in Portland Maine has also implemented a curriculum which incorporates experiential learning. In December of 2016, a group of eighth grade students and faculty attended a Climate March to enact legislation regarding sustainability and renewable energies for the state. These students had to learn about their carbon footprints and other environmental studies in preparation for the march. Thus, they were able to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a meaningful way through long-term goals and service.
