Experiential Learning at NBCC

What is Experiential Learning (EL)?

Experiential Learning is where theory meets action. In other words, learning by doing.

What does NBCC's Experiential Learning Unit do?

To create a firm foundation of experiential learning at NBCC, the unit performed a value proposition exercise to determine their customers and support for each group. The EL unit will develop, connect, and support students, partners, faculty, and the curriculum process.

Experiential Learning Cycle

What is Experiential Learning at NBCC?

NBCC learners are prepared for success.

Every student will have the opportunity to learn through meaningful experiences that are intentional, formal, and reflective while connecting the classroom to the job market.

Our Experiential Learning Framework

At NBCC, we recognize experiential learning in a robust framework around the following learning strategies:

Foundational Awareness
Curriculum-Connected Classroom Experiences

  • Guest Speakers
  • Classroom Activities
  • Basic Technical Assignments & Reports

Active Exploration
Deeper Engagement in Industry-Specific Experiences

  • Virtual Tour/Site Visit
  • Interactive Simulation
  • Conference/Webinar
  • Inquiry/Problem-based Learning
  • Job Shadowing
  • Capstone Project (no Industry Partner)
  • Volunteering
  • Work Teaching Lab (Living Classroom)

Work Integrated Learning
Direct Industry-Specific Experiential Learning (Work Integrated Learning)

  • Applied Research
  • Service Learning
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Field Experience
  • Co-op
  • Internship
  • Clinical Placement
  • Apprenticeship
  • Capstone Project (for an Industry Partner)

How Can NBCC’s Experiential Unit Support You?

STUDENTS, we want to prepare you for success. NBCC’s Experiential Learning team can offer you opportunities to learn through hands-on and applied experiences that will help you develop new skills, attitudes and knowledge, offering you an edge in today’s job market. From internships, work experience preparation and special funds designed to remove barriers to your work-integrated learning, we can support you.

Student Information

PARTNERS, you are valuable to NBCC. You, as industry and community partners, are involved in all types of experiential learning throughout the year, such as tours, visits, technical projects, service learning, applied research, and guest speaking. We are here to support you by matching your needs with the appropriate program and the right student.

Partner Information

FACULTY, as a member of NBCC’s academic team, you are already well-equipped for experiential learning through the Adult Education Instructor Development Program. You understand how to develop and facilitate structured learning experiences to meet program curriculum outcomes utilizing the EL framework. We can help you bring these experiences to your students. We’ll support you by helping find partners and opportunities, developing and processing agreements, managing relationships, and more.

Contact

Clarissa Harris
Head, Experiential Learning | Academic Planning and Evaluation
Clarissa.Harris@nbcc.ca
(506) 624-3933