Community partner perspectives on course-based experiential learning in Environmental Studies: A case study

Abstract

The benefits of community-based experiential learning for university students have been well documented. Community partners hosting students benefit from such collaborations but also experience challenges. This case study explores the experience of community partners who have hosted students as part of two required courses for the Bachelor of Environmental Studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. An online questionnaire, including both open- and closed-ended questions, was distributed to representatives of community organizations in government, non-governmental organizations and the private sector, who had hosted students with the aim of understanding their motivation, the benefits and challenges of hosting students, and how such collaborations could be improved. Results indicated that overall, most community partners viewed the experience positively and benefited from the collaboration. Some challenges were highlighted particularly related to professionalism and preparation of students.