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Benefits of Experiential Learning

Student Success

The teaching and learning practices of High-Impact Practices or HIPs for experiential learning through research have demonstrated "evidence of significant educational benefits for students who participate in them - including and especially those from demographic groups historically underserved by higher education" (AACU, 2024), including:

  • Increased odds of retention (Brownell & Swaner, 2010; Dagley et al., 2016; Provencher & Kassel, 2017)
  • Improved graduation rates (NSSE, 2007; Kuh, 2008)
  • Higher GPA’s (Kuh, 2008; Browneless & Swaner, 2010)
  • Deep learning and personal development (Finley & McNair, 2013; Kuh, 2008)
  • Increased engagement (Seat, Jones, Han & Walfgram; 2013)
  • Increased odds of job employment, continuing education, and increased salary (Twang, 2022)
  • Students experience even more positive success outcomes when they participate in multiple HIPs (Kuh, 2008; Finley & McNair, 2013)

Student Benefits

Students directly benefit from participating in experiential learning activities and they report that these opportunities helped them in the following ways:

  • Deepen their understanding of coursework
  • Build a personal brand
  • Explore career options
  • Solve complex problems
  • Sharpen industry-specific skills
  • Make important decisions
  • Expand professional networks
  • Practice career readiness skills
  • Gain valuable resume experience
  • Change the world
  • Discovery and advance their “Why” (purpose).

Hear About the Experience of BSU Students

Learn more in the Spotlight Stories about the experiences of real BSU students who have engaged in experiential learning activities. (Coming Soon!)