Experiential learning is a broad term that includes a number of educational opportunities such as service- learning, field-based experiences, study abroad, co-ops, and internships.  Active learning, or learning by doing, is a hallmark of experiential learning and provides a way for students to connect and integrate their theoretical, classroom knowledge with opportunities for practice and application outside the classroom.  While generally combined with research or other academic endeavors, experiential learning helps students learn a great deal from the community, culture(s), business, or natural world in which they are involved.

Service-Learning
Service-learning is a teaching method which combines community service with academic instruction as it focuses on critical, reflective thinking and civic responsibility. Service-learning programs involve students in organized community service that addresses local needs, while developing their academic skills, sense of civic responsibility, and commitment to the community.  (Source: Campus Compact National Center for Community Colleges)

The Center for Leadership and Community Engagement (CLCE) supports faculty and departments in all aspects of service-learning course development, implementation, and evaluation. To learn about the benefits of service-learning for faculty, students, and community partners or to learn more about how service-learning can be effectively incorporated into your classes, please go to
http://clce.gmu.edu/service-learning/sl_faq.html.

Field-based Experiences
The Center for FieldStudies (CFS), hosted by New Century College, is an immersion model in which classroom material is explored and applied within a given field experience.  CFS defines “field experience” broadlyto encompass a wide spectrum ranging from the natural world to human populations in their respective social and cultural contexts and settings, including how individuals behave in families, neighborhoods, and communities.  Within these field experiences, students apply their theoretical classroom knowledge through the collection of empirical data (whether quantitative or qualitative), which they then interpret through a praxis model of application.  Field experiences offered through the CFS create educational experiences that bridge the classroom and the community. 

To learn more about how the CFS can help you design a course around your interest and expertise, please go to http://ncc.gmu.edu/cfs/.

Mason Abroad
The Center for Global Education at George Mason University provides a wide array of study abroad opportunities for both Mason students and the general public and functions as the hub for international educational activities at Mason. CGE offers short-term, semester/year long, honors study abroad, international internships and intensive language programs. CGE hosts international visitors to the university and is the depository of all Memoranda of Understanding concerning educational exchanges signed between Mason and institutions abroad.

To learn more about Mason Abroad programs, services, and resources, please go to http://globaled.gmu.edu/.

Cooperative Education and Internships
Cooperative education and internships are available to interested students who seek professional experience related to their course of study.  Cooperative educational experiences are paid, whereas internship opportunities may be paid or unpaid.  Mason’s University Career Services is a good place for students to start their searches.  Some academic units and departments have internship programs available for their students.  Please contact your academic unit for information and details.

To learn more about educational opportunities through Mason’s University Career Services, please go to http://careers.gmu.edu/students/getexperience/index.html.