ABSTRACT
This chapter shares examples of experiential learning activities and the positive impact they have on students. Two assignments from an Introductory Environmental Ethics course are detailed: an optional, low stakes “Eco-Challenge” and a required, higher stakes “Experience Project.” The chapter highlights extra credit “Eco-challenges,” such as the “Water Bottle Challenge,” along with a few other examples. The required “Experience Project” requires deeper student commitment and engagement. Students have several options to choose from, including visiting an art museum, volunteering, or keeping a “Recycling Photo Diary.” Some students enthusiastically choose to design their own sustainably minded excursion. Both assignments provide thoughtful, creative ways to apply learned material outside of the classroom. Examples of student work, direct student feedback, and analysis of data illustrate the impact on student learning application and retention. Possible challenges (i.e., access, mobility, cost, remote learning) are addressed with effective ways to embrace versatility while maintaining quality. This chapter aims to convey the exciting impact “out of the classroom” assignments can have and how seamlessly they can be integrated into the curriculum.
