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What We Do

The Academy for Experiential Learning (AEL) at Virginia Tech University seeks to enhance and promote experiential learning across the university. AEL facilitates various programs, such as internships, research, study abroad, and community projects, integrating them into the academic curriculum. It coordinates the Bridge Experience Program to connect academic learning with professional practice, aiming to include this in 50 percent of undergraduate degrees by 2026-27. AEL supports faculty development through targeted training and workshops and builds partnerships within and outside the

university to expand learning opportunities. Committed to equity and accessibility, AEL ensures all students, including those from underrepresented groups, have access to meaningful experiential learning. AEL co-creates and partners with the operation with the Experiential Learning Operations Team—which includes Career and Professional Development, the Global Education Office, the Office of Undergraduate Research, and VT Engage. AEL develops, coordinates, and supports faculty and students in their experiential learning initiatives, while the Experiential Learning Operations Team is dedicated to opening doors to high-impact experiential learning opportunities by overcoming challenges faced by faculty and removing barriers encountered by students.

  1. Facilitating Experiential Learning Opportunities: The AEL supports a variety of experiential learning programs, such as internships, undergraduate research, study abroad programs, and community engagement projects. It collaborates with different departments and centers across the university to integrate experiential learning into the academic curriculum
  2. Coordinating the Bridge Experience Program: The AEL is heavily involved in the Bridge Experience Program, which aims to integrate academic knowledge with professional practice. The program helps students apply their learning in real-world contexts related to their career paths, develop professional self-awareness, and demonstrate a commitment to using their skills for the benefit of others and their communities. The program is designed to be a core part of the undergraduate experience, with a goal to make it a requirement for 50 percent of undergraduate degrees by 2026-27.
  3. Enhancing Faculty Development: The AEL plays a role in developing and supporting faculty who are involved in experiential learning. This includes providing professional development opportunities, workshops, and resources to help faculty integrate experiential learning into their teaching practices. The AEL works with centers like the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) to provide targeted training and support for faculty involved in study abroad programs and other experiential learning initiatives.
  4. Building and Strengthening Partnerships: The AEL actively builds partnerships within Virginia Tech and with external entities to expand experiential learning opportunities. This includes working with various departments, student affairs, and community organizations to create and support high-impact learning experiences. These partnerships aim to enhance the quality and accessibility of experiential learning across different disciplines.
  5. Promoting Equity and Accessibility: The AEL is committed to making experiential learning opportunities more equitable and accessible to all students, including underrepresented groups. It focuses on integrating equity and accessibility into program design and delivery to ensure all students can benefit from experiential learning opportunities.

Core Functions of AEL

This diagram illustrates the core functions AEL. It outlines a continuous cycle that includes developing faculty skills, coordinating the Bridge Experience Program, enhancing program management systems, collaborating with academic departments and operations teams, and advocating for inclusive learning opportunities. These interconnected activities ensure the effective delivery of experiential learning opportunities within the university.

Reports

Stay informed with our latest reports on experiential learning.