Students
Experiential learning is a dynamic process of learning through active engagement, where you can be immersed in hands-on experiences that aim to elevate your education. These experiences exist both inside and outside of the traditional classroom setting.
getting involved with experiential learning
As a student, engaging in experiential learning allows you to learn through applied experiences. There are several ways that you can take part in experiential learning at the University of Alberta. Some of these opportunities may be embedded into a singular course or structured into your degree program, while others may be pursued as extracurricular experiences. Regardless of the delivery format, experiential education can help you acquire new skills, explore potential career options, build confidence and contribute to your local community. Participating in and reflecting on experiential learning opportunities can help deepen your understanding of a topic or issue, inspire critical thinking and facilitate personal growth.
Why you should consider experiential learning
Taking part in experiential learning outside of the classroom means you will have the opportunity to engage in new learning environments or contexts and apply your theoretical knowledge in practical settings. Experiential learning can also occur inside the classroom, such as through simulations, competitions or laboratories, which enables collaboration, teamwork and learning through practical application.
Both inside the classroom and beyond, experiential learning allows you to explore, experiment, collaborate, and problem-solve as you encounter challenges and scenarios relevant to your future endeavors and/or personal interests. These opportunities help you to establish a deep understanding of broader social issues, create meaningful community connections, develop professional relationships, build transferable skills, gain self-confidence and make informed decisions.
Is experiential learning right for you?
Students in all fields of study have the option to explore the array of experiential learning opportunities available at the University of Alberta. There are several degree programs, both undergraduate and graduate, that integrate experiential learning opportunities into the structure of the program. Yet, many students are unaware of the options available to them or are unsure of how they can get involved. This digital hub serves as a starting point for you to explore the various experiential learning opportunities available across campus and determine how to get started.
Get involved
All students at the University of Alberta have access to different resources and support that can help you navigate opportunities and discover your possibilities!
- Access the Career Centre! The Career Centre is available to all U of A students, postdoctoral fellows and recent alumni. You can utilize the programs and services offered at the Career Centre to help explore career options and experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and work experience, either related to your degree program or in additional areas of interest to you. Some programs and services that may be especially useful include:
- Career Exploration Interviews: Through a career exploration interview, you can connect with a community-based professional and learn about their career story. Ask your career-related questions and gain their insight!
- Career Mentoring: Participating in the career mentoring program means you will be matched with a community-based professional with relevant experience and interests. Enhance your knowledge, skills and connections!
- Job Shadow: The job shadow program matches you with a professional with whom you can join for an in-person workplace visit. This can help you learn about career options as well as gain valuable advice and exposure.
- Grants and Funding: Consider applying for funding to help you participate in professional development opportunities during your degree! Check out the Green and Gold Student Leadership and Professional Development Grant or the Professional Development and Experiential Learning Fund (PDEL) to learn more about available funding.
- Advising Appointments: Not sure where to start? Book an advising appointment, tailored to your needs.
- Check out the Undergraduate Research Initiative (URI)! If you are interested in learning more about research opportunities, the URI office can help you figure out how to get started in research by helping you navigate the steps to getting involved in research, at any stage of your studies.
- Explore your options to Study Abroad! If you are interested in international experiential learning opportunities, you might consider going abroad to study, for an internship or to gain work experience. Find out if you are eligible to go abroad and explore the various education abroad programs that are available!
- Learn about the accommodations and accessibility supports that are available to you! The University of Alberta has a duty to accommodate and as such, must provide accessibility-related accommodations to students experiencing disability. If you are interested in experiential learning but struggling to find an opportunity that is safe and non-discriminatory, the Office of Student Ombuds may be able to help you with problem-solving.