Harnessing the Horse: Student Perceptions of Equine Focused High-Impact Practices

• In Event: Out-of-school Learning: Engaging Communities and High-Impact Practices

Abstract

Students pursuing graduate programs or entry-level positions in the equine industry must complete targeted coursework, engage in research, and build practical skills. However, maintaining a horse herd year-round poses significant financial challenges for universities. This project explored a cost-effective approach: temporarily leasing horses to support experiential learning while reducing expenses. Student feedback on their hands-on experiences was gathered, and it was hypothesized that 75% or more would find horse access valuable. In fact, 100% reported that participation in high-impact practices (HIPs)—research, labs, and management—benefited their learning. Despite funding limitations, three HIPs were implemented successfully, and the leasing model may offer a sustainable way to enhance learning while minimizing departmental financial strain.

Author

• Casie S. Bass, Purdue University