ENSURING STUDENT-CENTERED, CONSTRUCTIVIST AND PROJECT-BASED EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING APPLYING THE EXPLORATION, RESEARCH, INTERACTION AND CREATION (ERIC) LEARNING MODEL

Abstract

Experiential learning literally is making meaning from direct experience. It plays vital rolein facilitating the process of creating knowledge, sense-making and knowledge transfer inteaching, training and development. This study assessed the effectiveness of Exploration,Research, Interaction and Creation (ERIC) Learning Model which is a framework adoptedfrom various theories and philosophies such those of student-centered, constructivist-based,project-based, experiential, multisensory, reflective, participatory, interactive, cooperative,collaborative and active learning. Mixed method was used employing pre-experimental designand narrative analysis of learning experiences. Pre-test and posttest, survey, interview,observation and focus group discussions were made. There were 32 college students in theTourism Management Program enrolled in NAS 106 (Environmental Science) and 28 enrolledin BST 323 (Ecotourism) for Academic Year 2018 - 2019 at Columban College, Inc. and wereused as subjects. Quantitative data were treated using Mean, Weighted Mean and t-Test forDependent Samples. Student’s engagement and involvement were maximized by exploration,research, interaction and creation and they adapted the skills and strategies for them to becomeresponsible learners and lifelong learners. There was a significant increase in the performanceof students as well as develops more positive attitude towards the topics.