Experiential Learning

Last Updated: November 2011

Experiential learning is an important part of Ryerson University's model of education, emphasizing relevance and the integration of theory and practice. Knowledge of experiential and active learning techniques can be a valuable resource in the classroom. To that end, Ryerson has developed its own Office of Experiential Learning. The Office offers assistance to faculty in the form of research opportunities, conference updates, and links to articles and websites focused on experiential learning, service learning, and co-operative education. They have also posted a handy list of definitions of common terms in experiential learning.

Ryerson instructors might be interested in experiential learning activities in various faculties across campus, or in learning more about the Provost's Experiential Learning Award. View a list of past winners.

Watch the video "Looking Through the Lenses of an Experiential Learning Model."

The LTO has gathered some additional resources on active and experiential learning that we hope will be of use:

Experiential Learning

• The Experiential Learning Cycle
  Atherton, J.S. National Teaching Fellowship, Higher Education Academy. 2009.
• Experiential Learning Articles and Critiques of David Kolb's Theory
  By Tim Pickles and Roger Greenaway. LearningWire Digest. Training Zone.
• David Kolb's Experience Based Learning
  David Kolb has provided an experiential learning bibliography of all his writing.
• Reflective Journals [pdf]
  Developed by Lesley Treleaven. University of Sydney. 2002.
  "The Reflective Journal is an essential component of the experimental learning approach since it gives students the chance to observe and reflect on their experiences in the team project."

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