Date of Award

Fall 2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

College

College of Education

Department

Department of Education

Primary Advisor

Dr. Sarah J. Yates

Second Advisor

Dr. Ryan H. Nichols

Third Advisor

Dr. Lisa A. Coscia

Abstract

The purpose of this non-experimental, quantitative survey study was to determine the stakeholders' perspectives on experiential learning at Canvas College. Experiential learning has potential benefits for students as stakeholders, and internship can be a vehicle for experiential learning. Experiential learning can involve benefits such as employability, real-world experience, calling confirmation and spiritual growth, soft skills, and immediate application of learning. Stakeholders in an internship are not limited to students. Faculty and internship leaders are also stakeholders; however, a partnership program encompasses more stakeholders, including church staff, alumni, and host university staff. The survey was researcher developed and the Cronbach’s alpha of the final instrument was α = .89. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, and one-way ANOVA. Study stakeholders' mean perception of experimental learning was statistically significant (p < .001). The results indicate that a partnership program is an effective means of experiential learning in higher education. In addition, the data indicates spirituality, real-world experience, and calling confirmation are essential aspects to partnership program stakeholders. The present study contributes to the body of research regarding higher education internships as a means of experiential learning.

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