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Experiential Learning

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Experiential learning has an important role in every grade, subject, and program and is appropriate for every child, youth, and adult learner. It is an inquiry-based, pedagogical approach that provides opportunities for learners to co-construct their learning by: participating in rich experiences connected to a community outside of school; reflecting on those experiences to derive meaning; then, applying their learning to influence their decisions and actions in various aspects of their lives. Collectively, these three components are referred to as the Experiential Learning Cycle. The experience can involve local, national, or global communities and: being physically present (an on-site experience); being present through the use of digital tools and technologies (a virtual experience); or, a combination of the two (a blended experience).Experiential Learning helps students develop the skills, knowledge, and habits of mind to realize their maximum potential, meet the challenges of a fast-paced and globally connected world, and be active, engaged, and compassionate citizens. It provides students with opportunities to:

  • Participate in rich experiences connected to a community outside of school (What?)
  • Reflect on those experiences to derive meaning (So What?)
  • Apply their learning to influence their decisions and actions in various aspects of their lives (Now What?

Experiential Learning, early and often, provides opportunities to help students become personally successful and compassionate citizens who meet the challenges of a fast-paced and globally connected world. The experience can involve local, national, or global communities and: 

  • Being physically present (an on-site experience); 
  • Being present through the use of digital tools and technologies (a virtual experience);
  • A combination of the two (a blended experience).

Key Drivers of Experiential Learning

The Ontario Curriculum Global Competencies
  • Experiential learning activities will help learners develop a deeper understanding of expectations from the Ontario Curriculum.
  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving 
  • Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship 
  • Communication and Collaboration
Education & Career/Life Planning Well-Being
  • Knowing Yourself – Who am I? 
  • Exploring Opportunities – What are my opportunities? 
  • Making Decisions and Setting Goals – Who do I want to become? 
  • Achieving Goals and Making Transitions – What is my plan for achieving my goals?
  • Develop a positive sense of self and spirit as reflected in a sense of personal identity, self-worth, and hope for a promising future. 
  • To be connected and feel a sense of belonging at school. 
  • To be engaged in meaningful learning experiences and take an active interest in school life. 

Visit the Ontario Council for Technology Education website to learn more or see below for some different experiential learning programs available to HWDSB students.

Co-Operative Education

An experiential learning opportunity for you to get out into the workplace to apply knowledge they have learned in courses. Click here to learn more.

  • Co-op is offered in every HWDSB secondary school.
  • Up to two credits can be earned through co-op. These credits can be part of the compulsory credit requirements.

For more information, including current opportunities, click here to learn more.

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

You can participate in OYAP co-op placements in apprenticeship occupations to gain experience-and potentially be signed as apprentices before finishing secondary school. Click here to learn more.

  • OYAP is offered at every HWDSB secondary school through the co-op.
  • OYAP is delivered at various specialized.

Dual Credit Program

Dual Credit lets you earn both a college credit and a secondary-school credit at the same time. Click here to learn more.

  • Dual Credit is an experience that will help you make a successful transition to college.
  • Work towards completing your OSSD while also advancing your post-secondary.

Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)

A Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) allows you to customize your secondary school experience in grades 11 and 12 to your career interests. SHSMs provide opportunities to earn credits matched to a specified economic sector. Click here to learn more. SHSMs available at HWDSB include:

Arts & Culture Aviation & Aerospace Business
Construction Energy Environment
Health & Wellness Horticulture & Landscaping Hospitality & Tourism
Information & Communication Technology Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services Manufacturing
Non-Profit Transportation
Updated on Wednesday, July 24, 2024.
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