What is Experiential Learning?

Definition

Experiential learning is a broad category for teaching methods and activities that involve the learner in the learning process.

Students are given the opportunity to learn by experience.

Why Use Experiential Learning? Experiential learning provides

variety in the learning environment and gives students who are hands-on or visual learners a tangible example to correspond with a principle.

Often experiential learning activities give students a broader understanding of the concept in a physical environment.

Look at the Stats

60 percent of people are visual learners.

In a California study, Children who attended outdoor school programs significantly improved their science scores by 27 percent.

Students who participate in experiential learning are more likely to remember what they’ve been taught.

Example Activities: K-6

Teach students about weather patterns, deciduous trees, or water erosion by viewing real examples outside.

Teach addition and multiplication by observing plant growth and reproduction.

Teach grammar with word games where each student represents a different part of speech or punctuation that have to be put in the right order.

More Activities

Teach leadership and teamwork by asking student groups to organize scavenger hunts relating to school subjects.

Example Activities: 7-12

Teach physics principles by playing sports and measuring force applied or distance possible.

Teach history by reenacting debates, battles, or important events.

Teach critical thinking and understanding by holding reading discussions and group-led presentations.

More Activities

Teach leadership and perseverance by taking students on hikes, whitewater rafting expeditions, sports trips, or navigation explorations. Let students be in charge of directions or morale for a certain amount of time.

How to Start

Set a goal. Some experiential learning activities can be done in a classroom, while others require time outdoors.

Look for ways to incorporate hands-on learning.

Ask principals or administrators for clearance.

See if you might have more freedom experimenting with an afterschool program.

Logan River Academy

Logan River Academy actively involves students in experiential learning. We have found that students learn best when given chances to expand their knowledge.

Logan River Academy is a residential treatment center for students age 12 to 18.

To learn more about the education and accommodations available at Logan River Academy, check out our Facebook page, website, or Google+.