Enhancing Student Competency Development: Highlighting the Potential of Experiential Learning in Higher Education

• In Event: Thursday Roundtable Session 4:20 pm
  In Roundtable Session: SIG 41 Roundtable Presentations (Table 6)

Abstract

Higher education institutions must create an environment that challenges, provokes, and motivates students, equipping them to meet expectations and confront the obstacles they will encounter beyond their academic journey. In this research, we used a mixed methods case study approach to examine an evaluation course offered across two Canadian higher education institutions where students learned about program evaluation while participating in experiential community-engaged scholarship. Quantitative and qualitative data findings revealed that providing students with an evaluation curriculum paired with interdisciplinary and experiential learning opportunities increased competency development. We will share valuable recommendations for higher education instructors who aspire to craft course designs that are not only more equitable but also highly impactful and relevant for students.

Authors

• Katrina Carbone, Queen's University - Kingston

• François-Daniel Portelance, Queen's University - Kingston

• Janny Liu, Queen's University - Kingston

• Michelle J. Searle, Queen's University - Kingston

• Jennifer L. Hughes, Queen's University - Kingston

• Paisley Worthington, Queen's University - Kingston

• Rebecca J. Gokiert, University of Alberta