Facilitated by Les MacKenzie, Valeria Vendries, Naomi Dussah, and Darya Ali, Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences

As teachers it is our responsibility to provide the best possible atmosphere to promote and induce active learning while at the same time establish that learning is ultimately the responsibility of the student. Traditionally, lectures impart theoretical knowledge and do not allow much opportunity to focus on active learning. In contrast, experiential learning can promote a deeper connection and understanding between theory and practice.  This active learning technique is commonly used by science disciplines through labs, giving students a practical outlook of the theoretical knowledge through hands on experience and responsibility for their own learning.  We should never lose sight of the fact that a good educator is not just an isolated figure at the head of the classroom but rather an active participant in the students' experience within their field of study. Thus, it’s of paramount importance that the educator, whether faculty or graduate student, carefully plan and construct the first lab class. This is the time to set the tone for the rest of the labs of the course which ultimately weaves the connections and understanding between theory and practice, establishing the experience of experiential learning for the student.