Experiential Learning (EL) has the power to transform the classroom by helping students connect course concepts to authentic experiences, develop transferable skills, and deepen their engagement with learning.

This fall, the CFE is organizing a four-part Faculty Learning Community (FLC) focused on EL and High-Impact Practices (HIPs) in teaching. Whether you already incorporate EL into your teaching or are looking for practical ways to get started, this FLC offers an opportunity to explore evidence-based practices alongside colleagues from across campus. Participants will meet on the first Wednesday of September, October, November, and December for one hour to engage in interactive discussions, hear about campus examples, and examine how EL and HIPs can support student belonging, motivation, and success while creating more meaningful learning experiences. 

Because this FLC is designed as a collaborative learning community, participants are encouraged to attend all four sessions. Each session builds on the previous one, allowing the cohort to develop a shared understanding, learn from one another, and apply new ideas throughout the semester. Before registering, please review the meeting dates and times to ensure you can participate in the full series.

We look forward to building a supportive community of educators committed to enriching student learning through experiential education.

Session 1 || September 2, 2026 || 10:30-11:30 am || 324 Renne Library

Building a Shared Language: Defining Experiential Learning and High-Impact Teaching Practices

This first session of our FLC begins by establishing a common understanding of experiential learning (EL) and high-impact practices (HIPs). We will explore the similarities and distinctions between these approaches, discuss their impact on student learning and success, and examine how they are currently represented across campus. Faculty will also begin evaluating their own courses to identify existing EL opportunities and areas for growth.

Register Here

Session 2 || October 7, 2026 || 10:30-11:30 am || 324 Renne Library

Our second session will zoom in on HIPs to explore ways they are already being implemented across MSU. Today, we’ll hear various presentations from campus partners who are supporting undergraduate research, career development, living-learning communities, global learning, and other initiatives. In this session, you’ll gain a broader understanding of available resources, explore opportunities for collaboration, and consider how these practices can enrich students' educational experiences.

Register Here

Session 3 || November 4, 2026 || 10:30-11:30 am || 324 Renne Library

During our third session, we’ll hear from faculty who have successfully integrated EL into their courses. Presenters will share examples from a variety of disciplines, highlighting how experiential activities align with course learning outcomes, how student learning is assessed, and what they have learned through implementation. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss challenges, and identify strategies they can adapt to their own teaching.

Register Here

Session 4 || December 2, 2026 || 10:30-11:30 am || 324 Renne Library

In our final session, you’ll have time to apply what you’ve learned throughout the FLC by designing or refining an EL activity for one of your own courses. Through guided work time and peer feedback, faculty will align activities with course learning outcomes, develop meaningful assessment strategies, and leave with a practical implementation plan that can be used in a future semester.

Register Here

Meet your FLC leaders!

Desiree Taylor           Cassia Hameline           Josh Meyer

  Dr. Desiree Taylor            Dr. Cassia Hameline         Dr. Josh Meyer

 

Again, we hope that participants can attend all four sessions of this FLC, so please check your calendars before registering. You should register for each individual session using the links above. 

If you have any questions, please contact Cassia Hameline at 406-994-4556 or cassia.hameline@montana.edu