Enriching the Student Experience: The Stratford Experiential Learning Fund
We know that knowledge is cemented for our students when they can combine in-class learning with doing. Experiential learning takes their education to the next level, helping students to translate learning into passionate and fulfilling careers.
A spring 2015 trip taken by our newly-graduated Master of Digital Experience Innovation (MDEI) students, is a great example of this educational enrichment. The students participated in a capstone experience in the form of a curated trip to New York City. They visited world-class companies, met industry experts and were inspired by emerging digital media technologies and their applications.
When asked what the key aha moment was for him, MDEI student Sam shared, "Our visits to companies such as IDEO and Doberman helped me to see 'design thinking' methods in action, and to understand the outcome of their work in real life situations." And Julia shared, "The greatest 'aha' moment for me was learning about how the MET is applying emerging digital technology to create interactions with the audience. I hadn't realized just how digital technology can bring a different perspective for art appreciation."
These extended learning opportunities outside of the classroom are critical to our students success. Our goal is to support their aspirations to attend industry conferences, case competitions or hackathons, as well as supporting course activities such as the MDEI capstone trip. All of these opportunities require funding above and beyond their regular tuition, therefore we want to ensure that financial barriers are removed, ensuring any student who wants to participate is able to.
The Stratford Campus has identified the Stratford Experiential Learning Fund as its highest fundraising priority. We encourage you to consider making a gift and join with us to provide the support necessary for students to build the knowledge and skills that will make them meaningful and productive contributors to their future employers and to society.
Contact Kim Bardwell at kim.bardwell@uwaterloo.ca or 519-888-4567, ext. 3730 for more information or to make a gift.
