2020 Transformative Learning Conference

Applying Transformative Learning in Teaching

Sedentary behavior and other unhealthy practices are common in many workplaces. Employee wellness programs often vary by organization. Many worksites may not have the time and resources to provide a substantial employee wellness program. However, students may be an excellent resource for providing wellness programming on college campuses. Be Broncho Fit is an initiative on the University of Central Oklahoma that provides exercise programming for faculty and staff on campus. Students enrolled in a senior level exercise prescription course are given the opportunity to use their disciplinary knowledge and practical skills by working with a UCO employee and providing them individualized programming. Students also write blogs and newsletters, provide group exercise, create educational videos, and provide incentive plans. Employees also have the opportunity to work one-on-one with a nutrition and dietetics student on developing a healthy dietary plan. This presentation will outline how a campus-wide employee wellness program can be completed in the classroom. Details will be given on methods for providing students opportunities to apply their disciplinary skills and lead others in a way that could produce a transformative experience. The instructor, student, and client perspectives will be shared from threepresenters. The audience will be given resources to implement the program in their classroom.
Main takeaways will include: how to implement an employee wellness program within a class, guidance on coursework for students to enhance the experience, unique perspectives from the client and student viewpoint, and practical ideas for student groups to engage in transformative activities. .