Just because we can doesn’t mean we should: Ethics in experiential teaching and learning

ethics of experiential learning; trust & deception in learning; student choice; instructor power

In-class teaching practices embedded within experiential learning theories (ELT) can result in transformative learning for students. However, in-class activities also come with learning risks associated with emotional engagement. In this session, we share several critical incidents that challenge the “always awesome, all the time” narrative about experiential engagement, facilitating a robust conversation about the ethics of ELT-based teaching and learning. After discussion of the competencies required to facilitate in-class learning experiences, we engage session participants in conversation about power, relationships, deception, risk, and choice, and consider what our ethical obligations are to students we bring on the experiential learning road.

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