Experiential Learning in Higher Education
Online 1
Workshop
Online
15:00
20 March 2025
This online presentation delves into the multifaceted endeavor of cultivating an experiential learning culture within a higher education setting, including the challenges and opportunities, while showcasing best practices for fostering immersive educational experiences. The presentation is grounded in Experiential Learning Theory (Kolb) and explores how to facilitate the full learning cycle, from concrete experience to reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation, within diverse academic settings. Participants will learn practical strategies for designing curriculum and activities that promote deep learning through real-world application, emphasizing the importance of guided reflection and the creation of environments that support the cyclical nature of Kolb's model. Through real-world examples and insights, participants will gain an understanding of how to navigate the institutional hurdles and effectively embed experiential learning as a core component of the learners’ educational journeys.
Catherine McCabe
Catherine McCabe
Dr. Catherine McCabe serves as the Dean of the School of Business & Technology (SBT) at Curry College, bringing a distinguished career in higher education leadership and a deep commitment to experiential learning. Holding a Doctorate in Business Administration, Marketing from the University of Kentucky, alongside Master's (Communication Studies) and Bachelor's (English) degrees from Emerson College and Saint Anselm College respectively, Dr. McCabe's academic foundation is both broad and rigorous. Her extensive experience includes previous roles as Dean of the Welch College of Business & Technology at Sacred Heart University and Associate Dean and Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Suffolk University's Sawyer Business School.
A recognized leader in experiential education, Dr. McCabe excels at forging collaborative partnerships with students, faculty, alumni, and external organizations to develop impactful curricula. Her strategic integration of Experiential Learning Theory has consistently resulted in enhanced student retention, learning outcomes, and stakeholder satisfaction. At Curry College, she is currently leading the implementation of an innovative educational model that fosters student agency, adaptability, and resilience through the strategic use of tools like the Kolb Experiential Learning Profile. A proud Bostonian, Dr. McCabe resides in Abington, MA, and continues to shape the future of business and technology education.
