Teaching and Learning Resources

Experiential/Field-based  learning extends learning outside of the classroom to a place where students can have concrete experiences with problem solving in a real-world setting. This form of active learning allows students to see things in authentic circumstances that promote learning through first-hand experience rather than learning from lectures or textbooks.

One of the main goals of experiential/field based- learning is to prepare students for the world of work. Field-based learning is advantageous because it promotes cooperative learning, increases participation and interest in learning, and ultimately fosters initiative and leadership skills. Although there are challenges such as increased cost, more time required in planning and implementation, and complexity in assessing the progress, field-based learning is a key component to develop any student’s problem-solving skills. It provides students with the opportunity to practice and carry out skills and techniques that cannot be done in the classroom. There are a number of useful resources listed below to assist in your consideration of or implementation of experiential/field-based learning in your course. 

Related Resources
http://www.learningfromexperience.com
This site describes in detail the experiential learning cycle and links it to Kolb’s learning styles.

Research in the Geosciences

A comprehensive list of field based and experiential learning resources in the geosciences.

Teacher Education Quarterly A website with several useful articles on field-based learning.

Manning, M., Harris, J., Maher, W., McQueen., K. (1998). Learning in the field: a manual for conducting field classes. Australia (Jamison): Australasia Incorporated. Available in the CLL library.