The value of experiential learning: Examples from aquatic ecology research in southwest CO

Authors: Susan Washko

Year: 2024

Abstract

Field experiences and individual research projects are important components of training new scientists. When students complete these experiences, they gain skills in field methods, teamwork, outdoor comfort, problem-solving, time management, data analysis, and professional writing. Additionally, these experiences provide opportunities for students to integrate theory and practice, contextualize their knowledge in place, contemplate new perspectives, and build an identity and confidence as scientists. When university mentor/mentee groups partner with outside organizations, these experiences can be even more impactful. For example, students’ projects can fill research gaps that agency partners lack the staffing capacity to take on, and the students are highly motivated to do work that is meaningful to natural resource managers. This talk will highlight some of the aquatic ecology projects I am advising at Western Colorado University, detailing the advantages of these collaborations for both the students and the agency or nonprofit partners. By explaining the pedagogical benefits of providing students with applied research experiences, I hope to further encourage a network of collaborative efforts within Desert Fishes Council that will expand research capacity and train the next generation of desert fish conservation scientists.