Experiential Learning at The University of Gloucestershire

To support students in their studies at RGS and post-18 study, our Lower Sixth students currently studying A Level Physical Education and BTEC Sport took part in an educational trip to The University of Gloucestershire on Wednesday this week.

This opportunity provided students with a realistic insight into what it is like to study at university. In an opening lecture, students learnt more about the courses on offer and life as a student. Following this, pupils took part in a Sports Science Taster Day involving practical activities and a tour of facilities. In the environmental chamber session, they were given a role to participate in a research task. Students were exposed to -10 degrees Celsius with a wind chill with three participants on bikes and a treadmill. Results were recorded before exercise, during exercise and post-exercise. From participating in the task of extreme conditions, the students were able to link theory to practice. At University in lectures, students then would analyse patterns and look at physiological adaptations. The RGS students also visited the biomechanics laboratory where they experienced different biomechanical technologies ranging from force plates to 3D motion analysis. From this, they applied theory into practice from topics they study on the course. 

Olivia Hodgson commented: “I enjoyed going in the environmental chamber and it helped put our recently learned theory into practice in our A Level PE course”.

Joshua Griffiths added: “I really enjoyed the biomechanics lab, and liked the graph produced by the force plate after I ran on it”.

Freddie Ammonds said: “I really enjoyed the trip, especially the biomechanics and seeing what it is like to study at a University!”

 George Hallam stated: “I enjoyed my trip to Gloucestershire University as I enjoyed learning about biomechanics and doing exercise in the environment chamber at -10°C.”

 The students clearly enjoyed the experience and learned about both applying their knowledge and studying at university.