The Experiential Learning Networking Group (ELNG) on Facebook is one of the 3 groups created by the Transforming Higher Education Project to share principles, experiences, information and publications on these key elements of success. ELNG is a platform or venue for meaningful discussions or conversations on the potential and power of experiential learning (EL) as a significant pedagogy to help transform higher education.
The project has listed explicitly 7 objectives or aims for the ELNG (these are verbatim and can be found on the page) as a social media platform or venue for:
- Developing a conceptual understanding of the distinctive attributes of Experiential Learning.
- Initiating awareness-enhancing conversations around the possible university contexts in which different Experiential Learning strategies may be implemented.
- Exercising an in-depth examination of specific models and approaches for integrating Experiential Learning in higher education curricular frameworks.
- Analyzing the considerations that must be observed for successful Experiential Learning integration in higher education pedagogical schemes.
- Recognizing the complex and profound nature of reflection and appreciating its intrinsic role in Experiential Learning cycles.
- Exploring virtual Experiential Learning opportunities using effective educational technologies and online platforms; and
- Appreciating the effectiveness of Professional Learning Communities as collaborative and inquiry-driven professional support structures for enhancing Experiential Learning in higher education.
The Experiential Learning group is aimed at professors, teachers, and students interested in learning and sharing about their experiences with this pedagogy in agriculture and life sciences at universities globally.
“Currently the group has over 450 members and it’s open to all people who have graduated from university or college, and those who are working on non-academic workplaces that have powerful experiences or stories on experiential learning which have “marked” their lives for the better. We also accept students who share this same vision,” says Joy Jamago, the primary group admins and facilitator, who guarantees that sharing and discussions on relevant topics is stimulating and fluid.
Any accepted member can participate by making a comment, posting photos and videos, sharing articles and information, or asking questions, as long as it’s relevant to the group’s objectives. To become a member of this group you can join by clicking on this link.
“I believe that the platform can be a very powerful place for meaningful learning, when used appropriately and responsibly. This perspective is also shared by the project leaders. Conversations that are less formal could encourage more engagement, I think, especially members’ personal stories are what we want to read the most,”Jamago closes.
