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Engaged Learning: Taking Education beyond the Classroom
By Kristin Geraty, Associate Provost & Dean of Engaged Learning
In today’s world, just having a college degree is not enough. Students need to have practical knowledge and hands-on experience to succeed in their careers. North Central College understands this and has embraced the concept of engaged learning.
What is Engaged Learning?
Engaged learning is the process of applying academic learning to real-life experiences. At North Central, students have several opportunities to participate in engaged learning activities that go beyond traditional classroom experiences. These experiences help students reinforce their coursework, develop new skills, and gain confidence in their abilities.
Types of Engaged Learning Opportunities
North Central College offers a variety of engaged learning experiences for its students. Some examples include:
- Student research and fellowships
- Internships with local companies
- Study away programs
- Community service
Far More Than Just Internship Postings
The college’s Office of Engaged Learning is dedicated to creating and supporting these opportunities. Faculty members, fellow students, and community partners all play a critical role in these experiences. North Central College believes that simply having access to internship postings is not enough. The college is intentional and dynamic in fostering a variety of engaged learning opportunities for its students.
Reflection: A Critical Component
Reflecting on the experiences is just as critical as the experiences themselves. Students who collaborate with community partners take time to think about and articulate how they applied their academic knowledge and critical thinking skills to meet a need. Engaged learning is not just about “doing” – it is about “thinking” as well.
Success Stories
North Central College has many success stories of students who have thrived through engaged learning experiences. Some examples include:
- Molly, an accounting major, volunteers with Ladder Up to help low-income families complete and file their taxes.
- Adrian, a behavioral neuroscience major, co-presented a study on cocaine addiction at North Central’s annual student research symposium.
- Victoria worked with a faculty member to publish essays for the Society for American Baseball Research.
Upcoming Engaged Learning Opportunity
In May, North Central archeology students will do excavation at Knoch Knolls Park, site of Scott’s Cabin – the first white settlement in the Naperville area. Students will also help clear the park in preparation for the Naperville Bicentennial in 2031.
