Assessing Interdisciplinary, Experiential Courses

Considerable debate exists on the value-add provided by higher education in the face of rising costs. As Universities look for new ways to attract, retain, and prepare students for future success through enhanced student engagement and higher graduation rates, experiential learning and interdisciplinary studies are essential contributors to student success.

Using survey data from students pursuing their undergraduate degrees from four-year universities in the United States, we develop a conceptual model and empirically examine the impact of interdisciplinary studies, participating in experiential learning, and the mitigating role of student demographics on student learning outcomes. We aim to evaluate these courses' impact on students' learning outcomes and promote the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration and experiential opportunities in higher education.

ACADEMIC AWARDS
Kean University, Students Release Time for Research and Creative Works (Fall 2023–Spring 2024)
Kean University, Research and Scholarly Activities Funding (Summer 2023–Spring 2024)

PROJECT DURATION
Spring 2022–Spring 2024

RESEARCH TEAM
FACULTY: Denise Anderson (Graphic Design), Dr. Shweta Singh (Marketing), Suzanne Schwab (Communication)
STUDENTS: 25-34 interdisciplinary teams of graphic design, marketing, management, communication, and recreational science students