Teaching and learning theory literature points to the pedagogical benefits of Experiential Learning.
- Foster and develop labour market skills (Deller, Weingarten, Hicks, 2016)
- Apply theory into practice (Stirling, et al. 2016)
- Improve learning retention (Jayaraman, 2014)
- Provide authentic learning (Merriam, Caffarella & Baumgartner 2007)
The Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario (Stirling, et al 2016), extends the benefits of experiential learning beyond learners:
- Academic Institutions offering experiential learning increase student recruitment and community engagement;
- Employers and worksites offering work-integrated learning develop a positive reputation, have ‘work ready’ graduates and receive new ideas from students
Deller, F, Weingarten, H.P., and Hicks, M. (2016, July 19). HEQCO-Hunting for Good WIL: Putting quality before quantity. [blog]. Retrieved from:http://blog-en.heqco.ca/2016/07/heqco-hunting-for-good-wil-put-quality-before-quantity/?_ga=2.49865894.1481111244.1551727048-9 90920650.1551727048
Jayaraman, R. (2014, Oct 24). 8 Reasons Why Experiential Learning is The Future of Learning. [blog]. Retrieved from: https://elearningindustry.com/8-reasons-experiential-learning-future-learning
Merriam, S.B., Caffarella, R.S., & Baumgartner, L.M. (2007). Learning in Adulthood, A Comprehensive Guide. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass. (This book is available in the C.A.F.E. library).
Stirling, A., Kerr, G, Banwell, J. MacPherson, E. & Heron, A. (2016). A Practical Guide for Work-integrated Learning. Ontario: Queen’s Printer for Ontario. Retrieved from: http://www.heqco.ca/SiteCollectionDocuments/HEQCO_WIL_Guide_ENG_ACC.pdf