An important first step is to expand awareness of applied learning and to create a shared definition of what applied learning could be at scale at K-State.

A core team began the process of reviewing best practices in applied learning through national organizations like the Association of Public & Land-Grant Universities, Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education, and the National Association of Colleges and Employers, among many others.

A focused set of site visits was conducted to the University of Georgia, Clemson University, and North Carolina State University. Insights from these visits helped form the foundation for draft definitions for Applied Learning at K-State and the initial Applied Learning Experiences.

Definition

An educational approach that involves an ongoing cycle of concrete experience, intentional observation and deep reflection. Students apply knowledge and skills gained from classroom learning to real-world settings, projects, research and experiences. The learner develops new understanding and then applies it to new situations.

Getting Started

Learn more about definitions for Applied Learning and the initial Applied Learning Experiences.

 

Looking Ahead

Internship, Education Abroad, Service-Learning, and Undergraduate Research are simply the first of many to be recognized as Applied Learning Experiences. Read more about the future of this imperative and interact with our FAQs.