Think about your dream job – have you thought about what you’ll need to learn to get there? It might involve years of studying at university, but reading a textbook isn’t the only way to get closer to your goals. In fact, one of the best ways to learn is by doing, also known as experiential learning.
What is experiential learning?
Experiential learning means learning through practical experience. Students get actively involved with a hands-on project and apply the concepts that they have studied in the classroom to real-life practice.
A Concordia education means combining academic studies with hands-on learning. Every undergraduate is given at least one experiential learning opportunity during their studies, which will increase to at least two by 2025. Concordia students are the future, so that’s why we’re helping them prepare to join the global economy and meet the needs of our rapidly changing world.
What are the benefits of experiential learning?
When you learn by doing, you’re actively building upon knowledge that you already have. Whether on or off campus, students who participate in experiential learning:
- Sharpen their critical thinking skills
- Learn how to problem solve in real-world situations
- Increase their leadership abilities and motivation for professional growth
- Have smoother transitions into the workplace
- Expand their professional networks and employability skills
Learning by doing is the best way to build your resumé while completing your degree—sometimes you can even get paid! Located in the heart of Montreal, Concordia is surrounded by booming creative, tech and aerospace industries where experiential learning is highly valued. In fact, 85% of Concordia grads are employed within six months of graduating thanks to these transformative learning experiences.
How can I learn by doing?
Experiential learning is integrated right into our courses. Projects and workshops are common, allowing you to exercise your creativity and explore topics that interest you.
At Concordia, we offer six types of experiential learning:
Course-integrated
As part of your coursework, you can organize art exhibits, conduct lab experiments, explore simulations, orchestrate performances and more. Some programs have capstone projects, workshops or seminars built right into their courses.
Work-integrated
Step out of the classroom and into practical settings like Co-op, internships, clinical placements and teaching assistantships where you’ll learn on the job.
Research-based
Have any theories you’d like to test out? You can follow your curiosity by collaborating on a major research project, or work as a research assistant to faculty members and community groups.
Community-based
Connecting with your community allows you to participate in valuable learning experiences, including research for social change, volunteering with a community organization or case-study competitions based on local issues.
Internationally-based
Set your sights beyond Montreal and gain global experience by going on exchange, participating in a field school, or doing a research project or internship abroad.
Student-life learning
Learn alongside your peers by immersing yourself in competitions, design challenges, workshops, entrepreneurial activities and student societies.
Our ultimate goal is to put the tools in your hands to build the world you want to live in. The opportunities are endless when it comes to experiential learning, so let your ambition guide you as you learn by doing!
