Experiential Learning

Here at Hamilton, there is a wide variety of credit-bearing courses that use experiential learning methods to promote linkages between disciplinary studies and meaningful engagement with the society-at-large. Any Hamilton credit-bearing course using experiential learning methods engages rigorous and structured college-level learning with disciplinary and/or programmatic content and focus, and a complementary pedagogy. Within these courses students must demonstrate achievement of learning goals through a synthesis of experiential learning and other course content.

• On-campus courses using experiential learning methods incorporate labs, productions, exhibits, and research studies.
• Off-campus learning opportunities integrated into courses use methods such as field studies, research studies and theoretical applications and can be found at a distance (e.g., Adirondack Park, New England Center for Children, New York City, and Washington, D.C.) or close by within the local community (e.g. schools, social initiatives, and other diverse organizations).

Here are a few representative courses:

• ANTHR 114 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology: From Fieldwork to Ethnography
• ARCH 110F/251S Archaeology of Hamilton’s Founding
• ARCH 281/282 Archaeology Field Course
• ART 370 Special Topics in Photography: Curating the Archive
• EDUC 350 Seminar in Ethnography of Learning Environments
• EDUC 370 Education Practicum
• EDUC 395 Clinical Teaching Intensive Special Needs
• ES 220 Forever Wild: The Cultural and Natural Histories of the Adirondack Park
• PSYCH 351 Child Development
• PSYCH 358 Educational Psychology
• PSYCH 455 Field Study in Psychology
• RELG 133 American Freedom and Religious Thought

Hamilton also has a rich tradition of co-curricular community-based experiential opportunities that allow students to engage in service to the campus and local communities. Emerson Summer Grants, Levitt Center Initiatives, Alternative Spring Break, ABC House Tutors, and COOP Community Service Interns all engage in community-based learning. These activities and a variety of other experiential learning occasions give students the opportunity to synthesize formal academic learning outside the structures of a traditional college classroom or independent study.