“That Student Experience Was Real.” “How College Graduates of Color Benefit From Experiential Learning Through on-Campus Employment.”
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-25-2024
Department
Educational Research and Administration
School
Education
Abstract
Background: For decades, researchers have explored how college students participate in experiential learning, yet sparse work has engaged with Undergraduates of Color1 in these spaces or Graduates of Color after they leave campus. Purpose: This study engaged with 13 Graduates of Color (bachelor's degree holders) to understand their experiential learning outcomes through their appointment as on-campus undergraduate employees. Specifically, we explored whether Graduates of Color developed post-graduate employability through their on-campus experiential learning. Methodology/Approach: This study employed qualitative methods through in-depth, semi-structured hour-long interviews with Graduates of Color. Findings/Conclusions: Aligned with Knight and Yorke's USEM model, findings suggest Graduates of Color (while undergraduates) developed considerable understanding, skillful practices, efficacy beliefs, and metacognition as on-campus undergraduate employees in experiential employment positions, amplifying their employability and professional development competencies. Implications: Implications for research and practice include intentional recruitment of Undergraduates of Color to on-campus experiential employment, as well as an increased research emphasis on how Undergraduates of Color access and experience on-campus employment and experiential learning programs.
Publication Title
Journal of Experiential Education
Volume
48
Issue
2
First Page
266
Last Page
288
Recommended Citation
Burnett, C. A.,
Taylor, Z.
(2024). “That Student Experience Was Real.” “How College Graduates of Color Benefit From Experiential Learning Through on-Campus Employment.”. Journal of Experiential Education, 48(2), 266-288.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/21866
COinS