NORWICH – Campus leaders joined faculty members to discuss the concept of applied learning, one of the most important developments in higher education throughout the past 25 years.

Applied learning is defined as a process through which students develop knowledge, skills, and values from direct experiences outside a traditional academic setting.

The concept of applied learning is not new to Morrisville State’s mission, but changes in technology, employer demands and disparities in learning styles have further legitimized the concept.

Elise Newkirk-Kotfila, coordinator of community relations for The State University of New York (SUNY) System Administration, presented the history of the Applied Learning Initiative at SUNY and how that program has evolved. She also identified roles of engaged stakeholders and highlighted the benefits of the initiative to faculty, staff, administration and community partners.

Presenter Dr. Edward Zlotkowski, a professor of English and Media Studies at Bentley University and founder of the Bentley Service-Learning Center, spoke at length about the history of the applied learning model and its evolution in higher education. The presentation gave faculty, administrators and staff the opportunity to further explore ways in which the experiential model can enhance an institution’s overall effectiveness and aid student success after graduation.

Morrisville State’s curricula are enriched with applied learning and pave the way for opportunity at both the Morrisville and Norwich campuses. An action-oriented, interactive learning lab, the college is a national leader in technology. Lauded for its exemplary, innovative and effective community service programs, the college was recognized by U.S. News and World Report in its top tier Best Regional Colleges list and ranked second among regional colleges nationwide for outperforming its anticipated graduation rate.

For more information, visit www.morrisville.edu.