Episode 6 – Hidden in Plain Sight

Summary

Unlock the hidden potential of campus resources to revolutionize student learning. This episode reveals how instructors can turn existing spaces and tools into transformative experiential learning opportunities—and why collaboration is the secret ingredient.

Most campuses are rich with innovation hubs, makerspaces, and labs, yet many instructors overlook these resources due to siloed thinking. Patrick Charlton and Matthew Jerabek show how a simple conversation sparked a groundbreaking project: leveraging a college’s innovation space to create real-world, hands-on assignments that boost student engagement, creativity, and practical skills. From designing laser-cut keychains to prototyping new products, these initiatives demonstrate how to make learning more active and meaningful.

Takeaways

• Break silos: Connect campus resources across departments to create dynamic learning environments.
• Embed projects: Integrate hands-on activities into structured curriculums to enhance learning outcomes.
• Foster innovation: Encourage curiosity and collaboration to drive continuous experimentation and fresh ideas.
• Apply methodologies: Use industry frameworks like Sprint to make learning practical and memorable.
• Enhance motivation: Provide tangible, hands-on projects to foster ownership and creativity among students.

Chapters – Episode 6 – Hidden in Plain Sight

• 00:00 Introduction to Experiential Learning in Higher Ed
• 01:26 Guests and Their Roles in Innovation and Education
• 02:12 Patrick Charlton on Using External Resources in Class
• 03:01 The Praxar Video Game Marketing Simulation
• 03:18 Adding External Resources: Guest Speakers and Projects
• 04:04 The Role of Collaboration and Breaking Silos
• 05:34 The Innovation Space and Makerspace Overview
• 06:06 Identifying Underutilized Campus Resources
• 08:20 Applying Sprint Methodology to Classroom Activities
• 12:23 Transferable Skills and Student Engagement
• 13:37 The Impact of Hands-On Projects on Learning
• 15:27 The Power of Real-World Prototyping
• 18:35 Formalizing Experiential Activities in Curriculum
• 19:02 Building a Supportive Campus Ecosystem
• 21:29 Advice for Instructors to Innovate Today
• 24:30 Closing Remarks and Resources

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