Ten best practices for taking experiential learning online.

Area of Science:

• STEM Education
• Experiential Learning
• Online Pedagogy

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional in-person academic programs globally.
• Institutions needed to rapidly adapt educational delivery methods.
• Experiential learning programs faced unique challenges in transitioning online.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the transition of a summer undergraduate STEM experiential learning program from in-person to virtual format.
• To identify and summarize best practices for delivering online research experiences.
• To maintain student engagement, mentorship, and community in a remote setting.

Main Methods:

• The study outlines the original design and implementation of an in-person program.
• Details the adaptations made to convert program activities for a remote, virtual format.
• Observations were collected and synthesized into actionable best practices.

Main Results:

• Ten best practices were identified for moving STEM experiential learning online.
• The adapted program successfully maintained student engagement.
• Effective strategies for remote mentorship and fostering a sense of community were developed.

Conclusions:

• Online experiential learning is feasible and can be successful with careful planning.
• The presented best practices offer a framework for other institutions.
• Virtual formats can effectively deliver valuable research experiences for undergraduates.