What is applied learning at WSU Tech?

The simple answer is applied learning is learning by doing. At WSU Tech, applied learning is a part of every program we offer and every class that we teach. For some it may occur in the classroom through hands-on learning, civic engagement and simulations. For others, applied learning may happen out in the real world through internships, clinicals & apprenticeships. Applied learning fosters critical thinking, reflective practices, and supports transfer of new knowledge in real-world situations, all while providing our students with a heightened learning experience.

Types of Applied Learning:

Select one of the options below or scroll down to learn more about the different types of applied learning at WSU Tech.

Internships

Internships are short-term learning opportunities that will appear on a student’s transcript and could lead to permanent employment.

Earn & Learn

An Earn & Learn gives students the ability to apply what they learn in class with a paid, permanent position in a related field.

Registered Apprenticeships

A Registered Apprenticeship is a work-based learning model that leads to state certification, lasting 2-4 years with time split between classroom learning and working on the job in a related field.

Contact Michelle Ruder at mruder@wsutech.edu for more information.

Clinicals

Clinicals link classroom or lab theory with an experiential learning opportunity at a clinic or site related to health sciences. Clinicals are a requirement for most of our healthcare programs like Practical Nurse, Veterinary Nurse, Surgical Technician and Dental Assistant.

Hands-On Learning

Across WSU Tech campuses there are state-of-the-art labs and educational learning facilities equipped with the latest technology. Here, students spend time learning by doing, rather than reading or listening to lectures.

Civic Engagement & Service Learning

Civic engagement or service learning is an integrated experience through which students engage in thoughtfully organized actions in response to community identified assets and needs. A great example of this is with our carpentry/construction science and climate and energy control technology (HVAC) students who partner with Habitat for Humanity to build houses for individuals in need, Another example is with our Digital Marketing students who work with local small businesses to develop marketing strategy and plans.

Simulations

Simulations provide students with opportunities to apply new skills, knowledge, and ideas in a practice setting that mirrors the real world. Simulations let students develop key skills through trial and error in a safe, controlled setting before moving on to practice in real life.

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