Authentic Learning
As an active teaching methodology that equips students with the agency to engage in learning by doing, experiential and authentic learning is a cornerstone of liberal arts pedagogy. Drawing on the rich scientific, cultural, and environmental resources in Abu Dhabi, faculty at NYUAD can develop authentic assignments that leverage the geographic location of our community. Moreover, the dynamic nature of these resources enables them to be accessed even when we are geographically dispersed during remote instruction.
Field Trips and Experiential Opportunities Abound in Abu Dhabi
By exploring local museums, mosques, finance centers, and research labs, faculty can engage students authentically, and equip them with the skills to collaborate, think critically, and apply real-world scenarios to challenges. Case studies can be based on present or historic events and institutions in the city. The rich ecology of the Gulf region and vast desert ecosystems also offer opportunities for engaging scaffolded learning.