The shift to online learning during the pandemic underscored the need for innovative teaching practices that go beyond mere replication of traditional classroom methods. This paper explores the implementation of Experiential Learning (EL) in virtual environments to address these challenges. EL emphasizes the creation of knowledge through experiential transformation, engaging students actively in their learning process. This study focuses on a cohort of 32 students from Universidad Tecnológica Centroamericana (Unitec) in Honduras, participating in an Integrated Communications course. Over two semesters, students collaborated with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to develop advertising campaigns addressing migration issues. The implementation followed Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle, comprising concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. Each phase involved comprehensive engagement with migration topics, guided by IOM briefings and independent research. Students conceptualized and produced campaign materials, including audiovisuals and social media content with a human rights approach. Results demonstrated impactful student learning outcomes, including enhanced problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills. The study highlights best practices for integrating EL in virtual settings, emphasizing clear project briefs, robust communication tools, and structured evaluation criteria. These practices fostered student engagement, reflection, and collaborative learning, essential for navigating contemporary educational challenges. This research contributes insights into the effective use of EL in virtual learning contexts, offering practical recommendations for educators seeking to enrich student experience through active and applied learning approaches.

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Best Practices in the Use of Experiential Learning as a Teaching Methodology in Virtual Learning Environments

  • Kevin Mejía Rivera

摘要

The shift to online learning during the pandemic underscored the need for innovative teaching practices that go beyond mere replication of traditional classroom methods. This paper explores the implementation of Experiential Learning (EL) in virtual environments to address these challenges. EL emphasizes the creation of knowledge through experiential transformation, engaging students actively in their learning process. This study focuses on a cohort of 32 students from Universidad Tecnológica Centroamericana (Unitec) in Honduras, participating in an Integrated Communications course. Over two semesters, students collaborated with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to develop advertising campaigns addressing migration issues. The implementation followed Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle, comprising concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. Each phase involved comprehensive engagement with migration topics, guided by IOM briefings and independent research. Students conceptualized and produced campaign materials, including audiovisuals and social media content with a human rights approach. Results demonstrated impactful student learning outcomes, including enhanced problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills. The study highlights best practices for integrating EL in virtual settings, emphasizing clear project briefs, robust communication tools, and structured evaluation criteria. These practices fostered student engagement, reflection, and collaborative learning, essential for navigating contemporary educational challenges. This research contributes insights into the effective use of EL in virtual learning contexts, offering practical recommendations for educators seeking to enrich student experience through active and applied learning approaches.