Students

What is experiential education?

Experiential education is learning by doing. It’s an approach where educators guide you through direct experiences paired with intentional reflection, to help you deepen your knowledge, learn new skills, understand workplace practices, and clarify your values.

This kind of learning extends beyond the classroom, giving you the opportunity to apply what you learn in meaningful practical contexts, preparing you to make valuable contributions to your community and future career. As you engage in and reflect on these experiences, you’ll be able to articulate what you have learned, notice shifts in your thinking, and better prepare yourself for future opportunities.

Why is experiential education important?

Experiential education offers opportunity to learn through experience and understand how classroom concepts and ideas are used in practice. You’ll collaborate with a range of partners beyond the University, gain practical insights and see firsthand how concepts from your courses come to life in professional settings.

Experiential education is a type of learning opportunity that supports continual growth of intellectual skills in a professional environment while reflecting on your learning and building professional networks.

Is experiential education right for me?

Absolutely! All students can benefit from experiential education and there is a wide variety of opportunities available to choose from.

At UBC Okanagan you have different pathways to apply your academic learning.  Experiential education is an opportunity for self-discovery and growth.  Reflect and consider how the different opportunities align with your academic goals and career aspirations.

There are on-campus resources that can help get you started.

Which opportunity is right for you?