Wagner College gives its students the unique opportunity of linking experiential learning to academic courses. By virtue of its location in New York City, Wagner College is able to involve its students in the social, scientific and professional domains of the premier city of the nation. Students' experiential learning is directly linked to the Learning Community themes (see "The Wagner Plan ") and to the readings and discussions of these federated courses.

The basic theory of experiential learning is anchored in the work of John Dewey: the interaction of knowledge and skills with experience is key to learning. Students learn best not by reading the Great Books in a closed room but by opening the doors and windows of experience.

Experiential learning is a teaching methodology that uses meaningful practical experience to better understand course content and enhance the learning of abstract concepts. Through direct involvement with people and issues, students learn to apply their knowledge to real life situations.

These experiences are integrated into the students' academic curriculum through the Reflective Tutorial, a course which provides an academic forum for students to analyze, discuss and write about what they observed and practiced in the field.

Through the field experience, students learn about different social and professional cultures by working directly within these communities. As active participants, students will also share their knowledge, ideas and perspectives with members of the on-site community and their classmates.

Students are expected to participate in at least three (3) hours of fieldwork per week. The Experiential Learning Component utilizes a wide variety of agencies and organizations to provide the opportunities for field based learning.

The Center for Career Development and Experiential Learning (CCDEL) coordinates all experiential learning placements.

Participant Responsiblities

Student Responsibilities

1. To maintain good attendance at the field site and to notify the site supervisor of absences. Students should plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the beginning of each visit. Students may observe all College and agency holidays.
2. To treat as confidential all information made available to them at the agency / organization whether it concerns other people, clients, employees or the organization itself.
3. To set learning goals acceptable to the agency and the College.
4. To analyze, critique and discuss the field experience with members of the LC in the Reflective Tutorial.
5. To develop a written record of the field experience in a journal.
6. To behave and dress in a manner appropriate to a representative of Wagner College.
7. To notify the Center for Career Development & Experiential Learning and the agency / organization supervisor of any problems, emergencies, concerns, or suggestions related to the field site.

Agency Supervisor Responsibilities

1. To orient students to the agency.
2. To supervise and direct students for the purpose of assisting them in their learning experience.
3. To complete an evaluation form at the end of the student experience.
4. To advise the Center for Career Development and Experiential Learning of any student whose performance or attendance is unsatisfactory