What is Experiential Learning?

For the purpose of the University of Iowa 2022-2027 Strategic Plan, experiential learning is defined as the practice of learning through applied experience, either curricular or co-curricular, and guided reflection on those experiences.

Experiential learning helps students connect theory to practice through hands-on experiences that encourage application, reflection, and growth. While most experiential learning is a form of engagement, not all engagement experiences meet the definition of experiential learning.

Research shows that high-quality experiential learning experiences can support student retention, academic success, career readiness, and personal development. Reflection is a critical component because it helps students make meaning of their experiences and apply what they have learned to future opportunities.

Examples of experiential learning include:

  • Internships
  • Undergraduate research
  • Clinical experiences
  • Practicums
  • Service-learning
  • Study abroad
  • Student employment
  • Leadership experiences
  • Community-based projects
  • Applied coursework

Helping Students Find the Right Experience

Faculty and staff are often the first people students turn to when exploring opportunities outside the classroom. Understanding a student's goals can help identify experiences that are meaningful and relevant to their development.

Student Says...Refer Them To...
"I want career experience."
Internships, student employment, job shadowing, Pomerantz Career Center, Engineering Career Services
"I want leadership experience."
Student organizations, leadership programs, Career Leadership Academy, peer mentor programs
"I want research experience."
Office of Undergraduate Research, faculty mentors, research opportunities, creative scholarship projects
"I want to give back."
Volunteer Advising, community engagement programs, service-learning opportunities, Student United Way, Hawkeye Service Breaks
"I want global experience."
Study Abroad, global internships, Cultural Centers, international programs
"I'm not sure where to start."
Engagement Advising, Academic Advising, Career Coaching, faculty mentors

A Simple Engagement Conversation

Experiential learning conversations do not need to be lengthy. A simple framework can help students identify opportunities, reflect on their experiences, and plan their next steps.

Ask

What are your goals?

What are you hoping to learn or accomplish?

What experiences have been meaningful to you so far?

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Explore Interests

What topics, issues, or career fields interest you?

What skills would you like to develop?

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Connect to Resources

Match students with opportunities and campus resources that align with their goals.

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Encourage Reflection

Help students identify what they learned and how the experience contributed to their development.

Refer to the "Supporting Student Reflection" call out box on the right to learn more.

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Document in the Engagement Record

Encourage students to track experiences and reflect on their growth over time.

Refer to the "Documenting the Experience" call out box on the right to learn more.

Supporting Student Reflection

Experiential learning is most effective when students have opportunities to reflect on their experiences and connect what they learned to their academic, personal, and professional development.

Faculty and staff can support reflection by asking questions such as:

  • What did you learn?
  • What skills did you develop?
  • What challenged you?
  • How did you apply what you learned in the classroom?
  • What did you learn about yourself?
  • How does this experience connect to your goals?
  • What would you do differently in the future?

Faculty and staff can use the University's Career Readiness Competencies framework to guide these conversations. The Career Readiness Competencies page includes definitions, discussion prompts, and strategies for helping students connect their experiences to future academic and career goals.

Documenting the Experience

Encourage students to review and maintain their Engagement Record throughout their time at Iowa.

The Engagement Record helps students:

  • Track meaningful experiences
  • Reflect on their growth and development
  • Identify connections between experiences and future goals
  • Prepare for résumés, applications, interviews, and professional profiles

Students who regularly review their Engagement Record are often better able to articulate the knowledge, skills, and competencies they have gained through experiential learning.

Learn More About the Engagement Record →