Our Approach to Learning
The growth achieved in the Year On Experience provides a foundational set of skills that prepares Fellows for success in tomorrow’s world.
Our Philosophy
We believe strong individuals create stronger communities.
Our program sets Fellows on a path of exploration and growth that will last their entire lives, wherever they may go. At every step, our program reinforces the belief that individual growth is only the beginning of our journey to understand how to serve our communities and act as global citizens.
What Makes Our Program Unique
Our experiential learning approach uses three unique strategies—self-directed learning, peer learning, and learning through mentors — to provide a holistic experience tailored to fit each Fellow’s unique learning needs.
Self-directed learning
Curricula
Fellows are guided through the self-directed learning process, where they learn to take initiative, create their own learning goals, and implement appropriate learning tools.
- Effective work habits
- Personal health and wellness
- Goal setting and follow-through
Unique Program Activities
- Service learning experience
- Real-world projects
- Portfolio development
Learning Tools:
- How to change personal habits
- Goal setting framework
- Personal Pathway Plan
Peer learning
Curricula
Fellows work together on group projects, critique each other’s work and learn how to collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Project management
- Team collaboration
- Communication and presentation skills
Unique Program Activities
- Facilitated group dialogues
- Self-directed, sprint-based projects
- Community building
Peer-based learning:
Throughout the program, Fellows will practice delivering and receiving peer feedback that will help them in honing their skills and communicating effectively.
Learning from Mentors
Curricula
Fellows learn from their Coaches, Year On staff and professionals in the community to understand what it takes to succeed in their chosen field.
- Create professional relationships
- Follow through on work opportunities
- Bounce back from rejection
- Career pathway development
Unique Program Activities
- Foundational life skills workshops
- Learning by doing
- Group coaching
- Individual coaching
- Speaker Series
Teaching Approach:
Our staff and coaches “walk the talk,” consistently modeling behaviors the Fellows are learning. Behaviors are reinforced throughout all program activities, and required for success in academic and professional environments.
