Experiential learning distinguishes 4-H youth development education
from many formal
education methods. Activities are designed so youth learn by doing
first then reflecting on what they did and thinking about how they can
apply what they learned to other situations. Your aim as Helper is to
"guide" youth while they explore each activity.
In each
activity you'll find descriptions of a life skill and project skill to
emphasize, suggestions for more activities, and other helpful information.
The question-and-answer section is called Cool Your Engines. Here you can
help the youth share and process what they did, generalize to everyday
experiences and then discuss how to apply the life skill to other
situations.
Experiential Learning
Methodology is a five step learning process which is specific and
sequential. Experiential learning engages learners
actively, encouraging them to think more, work harder, and ultimately
learn more thoroughly than with other teaching and learning methods.
-
Experience the activity called
Throttle Up
-
Share the results, reactions
and observations, Cool your engine, Part 1
-
Process by discussing, looking
at the experience, analyze and reflect, Cool your engine, Part 2.
-
Generalize to connect the
experience to real world examples, Cool your engine, Part 3
-
Apply what was learned to a
similar or different situation, practice, Cool your engine Part 4.
Experiential learning can be used successfully in many teaching and
learning settings. Before selecting a delivery method, consider your youth
participants and overall program goals.
Here are
some Possible Learning Environments:
-
Series of
youth project meetings
-
Cam program
-
After
School program
-
Vocational
small engines classes
-
Curriculum
for youth while parents are involved in parenting classes
-
Special
community event to celebrate youth
