Applied Learning is part of Kansas State University’s DNA. From the beginning, students have been creating knowledge through cutting-edge research, learning with communities to effect lasting change, collaborating with global partners, and taking ownership of the world’s toughest challenges through leadership. As a Next Generation Land Grant institution, K-State has committed to providing every degree-seeking student with Applied Learning Experiences early and often, ensuring that our graduates are equipped with the skills needed to flourish.
Today, Applied Learning Experiences by K-State’s definition involve a cycle of purposeful experience, intentional observation, and critical reflection through global, creative, leadership, internship, undergraduate research, and community-engaged learning experiences.
The work to define Applied Learning and to reach every learner by 2030 began in fall 2023 and continues through many teams that represent students, faculty, staff, and administrators. Although the 2030 goal is new, the impact created by student and faculty engagement is not.
“K-State has a long history of having students practice what they are learning in the classroom through real-world application, as a way to help students gain that experience and really deepen the understanding.” said Craig Schroeder, Ph.D., Julie and Roger Davis Executive Director for Applied learning.
What they’ve been up to
The Applied Learning Experiences team has found opportunities to engage with students on campus through various events this academic year, including a walk-up event co-hosted with K-State’s Milling Science program. Pancakes were being mixed, flipped, and served hot off a grill outside the Leadership Studies building to students, faculty and staff passing by. The pancake mix was made with grain from the Milling Science program, which is the only grain processing for human consumption program outside of China, housing an FDA approved production facility on the Manhattan campus.
As people stopped by, they had the opportunity to learn something new about the Milling Science program, meet the Applied Learning Experiences team and hear about what applied learning is at K-State, and fill out a quick survey which gave the team a data point on what students are already up to on campus. And of course, everyone got free, fresh, hot pancakes.
Students making an impact
Sadye Patterson is a junior in Educational Studies, participant in International Service Teams, and Applied Learning Experiences intern.
“I have been part of the Applied Learning Team for almost a year now. This team has not only helped me understand what Applied Learning is and why it is so valuable but has also given me a platform to help students recognize how beneficial an applied learning experience is to their growth,” said Patterson. “I am excited to see how it will grow at K-State, and I am very grateful to be a part of it.”
Moses Aguilar, senior studying psychology and a Developing Scholars Program researcher shared, “Researching here in the Staley School has broken down barriers for me. Working with my mentor has made research feel achievable! I understand the research process and see myself contributing to new knowledge.”
You’re invited!
The Applied Learning Experiences team is excited to host the university community at cALEbrate: A celebration of Applied Learning Experiences at K-State. All K-State faculty, staff and students are welcome.
Guests will enjoy food and beverages, including a selection of beers donated by KC Bier Co. and a live performance will kickoff the event from United Black Voices gospel choir.
The ALE team will share updates, student applied learning stories, and how the ALE team can serve faculty and staff.
cALEbrate: A celebration of Applied Learning Experiences at K-State
- 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, April 30
- Leadership Studies building, Town Hall and Lobby
- Register at this link by Wednesday, April 23.
- Add the event to your calendar: Facebook | K-State Calendar
For questions, email appliedlearning@ksu.edu.
