Experiential Learning
Active learning engages our brains in sensory, cognitive and emotional ways that allow us to process and store more information. Experiential learning takes this process one step further and adds a reflective component that not only solidifies skills but begins to introduce students to critical thinking. Volunteering at a food bank is active learning – reflecting on the need for a food bank and how the food is best distributed is experiential learning.
Bridging Learning to Careers
A recent survey indicated that 84% of SPS Students think about their career goals daily; 64% of our students report that achieving these goals is one of the utmost important things that Boise State can do for them. At the same time, a survey of Public Service employers indicated that attitude, the ability to express what they’ve learned and professionalism are the most important considerations to them when hiring new college graduates. Experiential learning is the bridge that joins student and employer expectations.
Experiential Learning at a Glance
| Conflict Management | Criminal Justice | Environmental Studies | Global Studies | Military Science | Political Science | Urban Studies | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Service Learning Required | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Service Learning in Electives | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||
| Work with a Community Partner | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Event with Course Credit | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Field Trips | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Internship Required | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Study Abroad Alt Field School | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Other | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |