Creating Value for STEAM Students: Incorporating Experiential Learning Into Engineering and Technical Communication Classes Through Community Engagement

Abstract

This case details the specific ways that one STEAM university creates value by incorporating project-based experiential learning and service-learning into technical communication and engineering classes. Many of these projects are initiated and supported through the internal CREATE Institute dedicated to furthering the mission, vision, values, and mindset of the university. In addition to explaining the establishment and role of the CREATE Institute, this case describes an example of experiential learning - a partnership between a Technical Communication class and a local radio station aimed at creating public service announcements. It also notes several engineering classroom projects related to the school’s partnerships with a local pay-what-you- can restaurant. Findings of the university and the CREATE Institute are that it is important to meet the needs of all stakeholders, and project-based experiential learning initiatives must include continual and effective communication among these stakeholders.