Experiential Learning

The Extended Classroom

The idea of extending the borders of the traditional classroom is deeply entrenched at Baylor - which explains why we have been able to sustain and build on the success of numerous programs and take them to a level that has become the envy of other schools. From the physics applications of a trip to the amusement park to Walkabout's lessons of the great outdoors, Baylor's experiential opportunities are an important part of our overall academic program.

Here are just a few examples:

• A community service effort originated in 1979 became one of the few in the country several years ago to offer a grant-writing course through which many students have obtained funding for community programs.
• Baylor is a community committed to developing in students an awareness of an increasingly complex world. Part of that awareness comes from a number of travel opportunities specifically designed to broaden a student's world view through personal experiences. Our global classroom includes art trips to Florence Italy, Walkabout and service trips to India and Jamaica.
• In 1975, Baylor students first visited Six Flags over Georgia to observe the rides and apply concepts of physics. Although Six Flags now publicizes the idea of using an amusement park as an extended classroom, it was unusual in those days to see students meandering about calculating the velocity of the Scream Machine.
• Faculty member John Miller organized Inner Circle in 1974, giving students the opportunity to extend their film appreciation discussions to a broader appreciation for the world around them. Inner Circle is now led by faculty member Pete Robinson.
• Baylor Connections was created several years ago to enhance three experiential education areas in grades 6 through 8: community service, classroom extension, and enrichment.
• Our outdoor program (Walkabout) began in 1975 and is highly regarded nationwide.
• On the annual Freshman Trip, the entire freshman class is guided through two days and nights of outdoor adventures, fun, and most importantly – the profound opportunity to relax together.
• Baylor's annual Senior Trip to Camp Chattooga in Mountain Rest, S.C., originated in the 70s and has become an important piece of the overall Baylor experience. Seniors spend the last eight days of their Baylor careers on a wilderness adventure that includes a service component with the National Forest Service. Ironically, for many, one of their last experiences at Baylor is their first exposure to Walkabout and often one of their most coveted memories.

For more information about travel opportunities at Baylor, click here.