Teaching Students of all Backgrounds: “Yes, Experiential Learning is Possible, Fun, and Effective Online!”

Experiential learning (EL) has a history spanning over centuries and while EL has gained much popularity in recent years, some educators still find it challenging to create effective learning environments (Eyler, 2017). In the online classroom, EL may seem difficult to integrate when first debated; however, research demonstrates that experiential education is vital in all settings in order to effectively teach real-world knowledge of local or global challenges and practices (Hoffman & Silverberg, 2015). In today’s technology dominant world, educators are encouraged to integrate experiential learning into their classrooms to prepare future professionals with varying backgrounds and interests so that they may become successful in their career post-graduation (Twynstra & Dworatzek, 2016). As scholarly literature highlights, EL can be applied in numerous modalities and academic disciplines and thus, allows much creativity for curriculum designers, faculty, and students. This presentation will provide greater insight into EL, its history, purpose, and potential in the online classroom. General examples for EL application will be discussed in conjunction with the advantages for using this method, based on recent literature. Lastly, EL examples from Ashford University’s Bachelor of Arts Health and Wellness program will be shared to demonstrate various options for integrating this approach when teaching students of all backgrounds across the globe. As online learning continuously evolves, EL should be strongly considered when designing courses and instructing diverse student populations to ensure enhanced enjoyment of learning, student satisfaction, and student success.