Experiential & Non-Traditional Learning at BCC
BCC provides students with a wide variety of opportunities to actively engage in meaningful applied learning experiences during their course of study at the college. These experiences are designed to help students connect to the wider community and to create an integrated and synergistic matrix of knowledge, skills, and understanding. The deeper and more connected learning that comes from application and reflection is an important part of education at BCC.
Students can take advantage of three major types of experiential learning: Prior Learning Assessment, Academic Internships, and Academic Service Learning.
Prior Learning Assessment
Students can have previous learning assessed for possible college credit at BCC. Prior learning can come from work, education, or life experiences. Interested students should enroll in EXPRL 187, which guides them in preparing a portfolio. The course includes instruction in adult learning theory, identifying relevant past learning experiences, developing specific portfolio outcomes, and determining the type and amount of expected credit. At the conclusion of the class, each student’s portfolio will be evaluated by the appropriate department, and a determination of credit will be made.
Academic Internships
BCC develops internship positions for students with a wide range of businesses, non-profit agencies, governmental organizations, and BCC programs, so that students will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful work-based learning related to their studies at the college. The college’s Internship Program will assist students with resume and interviewing strategies, help them identify positions related to their career path, and enroll them for academic credit in EXPRL 191, 192, or 193 if they are selected for an internship. The internship is guided by well-defined learning goals that each student chooses with the help of faculty and agency personnel. Students may participate in an internship to help decide on a career path, to learn more about their chosen field, or to make connections for career advancement.
Academic Service Learning
Many classes at BCC have a service learning component, in which students do a community service project as part of their class work. The service is integrated with class instruction and focuses on critical, reflective thinking and civic responsibility. It is tied to the learning outcomes for the course. Please check the course schedule for classes that provide service learning opportunities.