Experiential Learning Policy

An experiential learning activity is a single, off-campus educational/instructional experience provided by CU faculty/staff to their students which normally involves travel for the group. The Experiential Learning Policy does not include internships, clinical experiences, fieldwork experiences, or practicums. Policy regarding participation in such experiences are determined by individual departments. 

University experiential learning expands student learning, knowledge and understanding of a subject and adds realism to the topic of study through active hands-on experience with the rich resources of the local community. Students can expect the following with regard to experiential learning in their courses:

• All required academic experiential learning will be linked to the course objectives and objectives for student learning during the experiential learning activity will be identified in the syllabus.
• All required academic experiential learning will be clearly identified as such in the course syllabus at the beginning of the term, with detailed information about date, time, locations, means of transportation, and any fees for which the student is responsible. If an unforeseen educational opportunity arises later in the term, as soon as possible the faculty member will discuss it with the class. In that case, such a trip cannot be required of all students.
• Faculty will work to schedule the experiential learning activity during their regularly-scheduled class session or during a time that causes the least disruption to other courses whenever possible (e.g. weekends or late afternoon/evenings for traditional undergraduates, alternate weeks for blended courses).
• In order to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to experiential learning activities, faculty members will review student accommodations provided by the ARC and work closely with the student to ensure accommodations can be provided during the experiential learning activity. Students who have concerns about access to the experiential learning activity should discuss their concerns with the Academic Resource Center Director.
• Either the faculty member or some other responsible University official designated by the faculty member will accompany students to all academic experiential learning activities.
• All faculty will be notified of students participating in an experiential learning activity via email to excuse the participating students from class.
• Students are expected to notify faculty of other courses at least three days ahead of time that they will be absent and/or miss required assignments due to an experiential learning activity.