Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is the process of learning through experience and is more specifically defined as “learning through reflection on doing.” As a learning community, we have gone through an inclusive process to identify our Learner Attributes and Values that align closely with our Mission, Vision, and Definition of Learning. We know that authentic experiences both on and off-campus allow students to practice these skills, strategies, and dispositions. “Learning by doing” and then pausing to reflect on individual and collective learning experiences enables students to engage with the learning process, discover who they are as learners, and promote their innate curiosity.

As part of our collaborative structures at ISB, we continued to review and reflect upon our units of study to bring experiential learning experiences into the core curriculum during the school day. Our elementary and middle school students could explore our learning spaces at our Environmental Wilderness Campus (EWC). In addition, our high school students were able to participate in DELVE (Discover. Explore. Learn. Volunteer. Enrich) trips and experiences this year. The DELVE program is designed to be volunteer-based and environmentally conscious. Our students are actively taking action from iCare to the ServICE conference to community art projects.

In our makerspaces, science labs, and media rooms, our primary and secondary students engaged with our ISB Design Cycle to provide a framework for developing problem-solving skills and practicing an iterative mindset. All across our campus, we continue to review and refine our approach to curriculum integration that dissolves the boundaries between the conventional disciplines and organizes teaching and learning around the construction of meaning in the context of real-world problems or themes.