Experiential Learning Showcase: Aviva Gurung
Jun 6, 2025 | Experiential Learning
At Canadore College, providing high-quality experiential learning is a core commitment. In today’s Experiential Learning Showcase we are privileged to hear from Aviva Gurung, a recent graduate of Canadore’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) program.
Aviva wasn’t always drawn to working with children, but her experiences supporting children’s learning proved to be formative. “I realized how rewarding it is to contribute to the early years of growth and development,” she shares. “This led me to choose the ECE program at Canadore, where I could turn that growing passion into a meaningful career focused on children’s well-being, learning, and lifelong success.”
Students in the ECE program participate in three field placements before they graduate. Aviva’s placements provided her with experience in both childcare and school settings. “Having different experiences was crucial, as each childcare environment is unique,” she says. “I was able to plan and facilitate activities for children, document their learning through pedagogical tools, and adapt my approach to meet diverse developmental needs. I learned how to form meaningful relationships not only with children, but with families and colleagues. I also learned how to be flexible, creative and reflective in a childcare setting,” she explains.
Aviva also learned experientially through interactive classroom experiences. “We participated in classroom labs and collaborative projects that simulated real scenarios such as diapering routines, reading books in interactive and engaging ways, exploring hands-on science activities, and supporting outdoor play. We also focused on making learning playful through hands-on activities, songs, and games.”
Overall, Aviva says experiential learning provided her with the skills and confidence to work with children. She developed the skills and mindset she needed to become an effective, empathetic educator. One of her placements even led to a job offer, where she has been working ever since!
Throughout her time at Canadore, Aviva gained perspective on the power of experiential learning for all students. “Students get to move beyond the classroom and develop skills through real-world experiences. It deepens understanding, builds confidence, and helps learners discover their strengths while preparing them for the expectations of the workplace.”
Aviva offers sound advice for other students who will be participating in experiential learning: “Be open to new experiences and take initiative during your placements. Ask questions, reflect on your practice, and take time for self-care The more engaged you are, the more you will gain from your learning journey. Make yourself comfortable in the environment and think positively, as everyone is there to help you grow.”
“The more engaged you are, the more you will gain from your learning journey. Make yourself comfortable in the environment and think positively, as everyone there is there to help you grow.”
By committing herself wholeheartedly to her experiential learning opportunities, Aviva found lasting success. Her story exemplifies the potential of ’learning by doing.‘ Click here to learn more about Experiential Learning at Canadore.
If you are a Canadore student and would like to share your experiential learning story, please contact the Manager of Experiential Learning at jeremie.carreau@canadorecollege.ca.