Experiential Learning Projects: Engaging First and Second Year Principles of Marketing Students

Abstract

Experiential learning projects provide students with practical opportunities to apply theory, but are typically implemented in upper-level courses. This paper explores the impact of two experiential projects on first and second-year Principles of Marketing students at a small private business college in New England. Projects involved partnerships with external clients, providing students with the opportunity to explore concepts beyond the classroom. Findings suggest the value of implementing experiential opportunities early in a student’s collegiate tenure with six themes emerging from these experiences. The six salient themes include increased engagement, intellectual challenge, student centered learning environment, link theory to practice, personal pride & teamwork, and professional development.