Transformative learning
Transformative learning is an institution-wide initiative and central to VCU’s emphasis on innovative teaching and learning as it prioritizes the critical role of reflection and psychosocial development in the learning process. Experiential learning, at its core, integrates disciplinary knowledge and intellectual skills with real-world experiences. Our commitment to experiential education fosters critical thinking, self-discovery, and personal growth, preparing students to become autonomous learners and engaged citizens. At VCU, transformative learning experiences include but are not limited to internships, clinical placements, community engagement, global learning experiences, and undergraduate research.
To learn more about transformative learning opportunities, please select a category of interest from the menu or use the academic strategy and innovation "Help desk" ticket system to submit an inquiry.
TRANSFORMATIVE LEARNING WEEK FALL 2024
October 28th-November 1st
Theme: Every Ram Connects. Every Ram Creates. Every Ram Contributes.
VCU will host its annual Transformative Learning Week which features a week-long schedule of events that:
- highlight transformative learning experiences that exist at the university
- provide several opportunities for faculty, staff, and students to network, learn, and connect with one another with a focus on opportunities that take teaching and learning outside of the traditional classroom.
- collaborate across units at the university to create and engage students and the broader community
- engage in university-wide service activities that will benefit the Richmond community
More information on last year’s Transformative Learning Week can be found in this story.
For questions or more information about Transformative Learning week, please contact Shanza Isom via email: isomsa@vcu.edu
Schedule of Events
Monday, October 28
Micro-Internships
11:00am-noon - virtual session
Parker Dewey Student Presentation
*registration required for access
Finding & Funding International Internships
3:00-4:00PM - virtual session
VCU Global Education Office & VCU Career Services
*registration required for access
VCU Transform Open House Presentation
4:15-5:00PM, West Grace North, Room 1030J
Office of Student Leadership and Engaged Learning
Tuesday, October 29
RVA Internship & Experiential Learning Opportunities Fair
Noon-3:00PM in University Student Commons, Richmond Salons
(registration not required)
National Vote Early Day
University Student Commons, Lobby
When Americans vote early, they ensure last-minute problems, long lines at the polls, confusing election laws, or voter disinformation cannot prevent us from casting our ballot. Vote Early Day is a tentpole moment for partners nationwide to engage with voters and empower them with the tools to cast their ballots early.
Wednesday, October 30
Transformative Learning Panel
Title: Every Ram Connects. Every Ram Creates. Every Ram Contributes
1:00-2:30PM at the University Student Commons, SGA Senate Chambers
Undergraduate Research Series with the Science Hub
1:00PM at the Science Hub (rm. 201) in the VCU STEM Building
Registration encouraged, but not required to attend. Refreshments will be provided.
Emerging Researchers Academy
3:00PM - virtual session via Zoom
Lunch and Learn: Community Engaged Teaching and Learning
Noon-1:00PM, University Student Commons, Alumni Association Board Room
Interactive discussion for graduate students interested in faculty roles as part of the Preparing Future Faculty series that will feature faculty who teach with a community-engaged focus.
Thursday, October 31
Annual Cards for Seniors
Come create fall themed cards for RRHA senior communities!
Thursday, October 31, 12-2pm
Mary & Frances Youth Center (120 S. Linden St.)
(Registration not required; drop in anytime!)
VIP Showcase (treats included!)
1:00-3:00PM - Engineering Research Building Atrium, 401 W. Cary St.
The Vertically Integrated Projects (VIP) Showcase will demonstrate ongoing projects and research conducted by current VCU VIP teams. VIPs are course-based, multiyear, multidisciplinary, team-based projects conducted under the guidance of faculty and graduate students. These projects are driven by faculty areas of expertise and are "Vertically Integrated" in that there are several levels of researchers and team members working together on a project. VIPs are mutually beneficial collaborations between faculty and students, simultaneously advancing the research and creative initiatives of faculty team leads while also engaging students in the high-impact practices of research and project-based learning. This is an excellent opportunity for faculty who are considering creating a VIP and for students who are seeking one of VCU's most impactful hands-on experiential learning opportunities.
Making the Most of Mentoring and Reflection in Your Transformative Learning
Thursday, October 31 from 1:00-2:00 PM via Zoom
Mentoring and reflection are two powerful tools that can elevate your internship — and other transformative learning experiences — beyond just completing tasks. Through mentoring, you have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with professionals in your field, gaining valuable insights into career paths, industry trends, and workplace dynamics. Reflection, on the other hand, allows you to pause and think critically about your experiences, helping you identify the skills you’re developing and how they align with your long-term goals. Learn techniques to make these tools more effective in your transformative learning experience.
Friday, November 1
Connect 2024: Community Engagement Conference
8:30AM-4:30PM - Cabell Library, Room 303
Free to attend
Connect 2024: Community Engagement Conference invites community members, community organizations, and faculty, staff, students and alumni at VCU to come together for a day of learning, networking and skill development. Participants will learn skills and principles of community engagement, see partnerships in action with a focus on community engagement approaches to health equity, and engage in design activities to support future collaborations to meet community need.
Transformative Experiences for Students
If you are looking for other ways to get involved this week, please consider some of these transformative experiences/programs happening on and around campus. Activities include outdoor adventure trips (hiking, climbing, biking), First Aid and CPR workshops, and more!