Experiential Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Reflective Process

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic made a resounding impact worldwide, forcing brick-and-mortar higher education institutions to move online. During this transition, students had to adjust while attempting to construct meaning amidst myriad of pandemic related challenges. At the same time, educators had to transition from in-person to online course delivery, while navigating their own uncertain circumstances. All the while, learning continued. This article describes experiential education and outlines how educators can use a model that integrates the adventure wave and experiential learning cycle to guide online instruction. The proposed model is useful for enhancing the learning process and promoting wellbeing by providing students the needed time to construct new knowledge about course content within the context of the pandemic. Case examples demonstrating the application of experiential education using the proposed model in a counseling theories course and basic skills course are included. Emphasis is placed on ensuring student welfare so that learning can continue during the disruption of COVID-19.