Learning Through Active Engagement

Through hands-on learning in HSPH, our students gain valuable social, personal and professional skills. These experiences are integrated throughout our classes and outside activities.
Blood Pressure Exercise

Students learn how to take blood pressure readings as part of their HLTH 21300 Wellness Course.

Hands-on learning is a crucial component of the educational process, allowing individuals to actively engage in the topic at hand and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. By immersing students in practical experiences, they are able to develop a deeper understanding of concepts and skills that may not be easily grasped through traditional lectures or reading materials alone. This approach fosters critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration among learners. Moreover, hands-on learning promotes a sense of ownership and pride in one's work, leading to increased motivation and retention of information. As professionals in the field, it is imperative to incorporate hands-on learning opportunities into training programs to ensure comprehensive skill development and success in the workplace.

Flu Vaccine Clinic

Dr. Bentley and HLTH 31700: Community Health students assisted at the Syracuse, NY Vaccination Clinic

China Study Abroad Program: HLTH 30000 China Culture, Health, Healing and Sport at Shanghai University of Sport for culture experience. Ithaca College Students experience hands-on learning on calligraphy, acupuncture, massage, moxibustion, martial art etc.

China Study Abroad Program: HLTH 30000 - China Culture, Health, Healing and Sport at Shanghai University of Sport for Cultural Experience. Ithaca College Students experience hands-on learning on calligraphy, acupuncture, massage, moxibustion, martial art etc.

Student Teaches Elders Cell Phone Technology

nba买球正规官方网站SM 10500: Learning to Take the Long View of Life; Students in class met at Longview once a week for intergenerational activities and discussions; in this picture a student teaches Longview residents how to use filters on their cell phone

Racker Swim Safety: HLTH-12500 Disability Awareness

Ithaca College Racker Center Water Safety Program:

  • Ithaca College's course, HLTH-12500 Disability Awareness, introduces a wide spectrum of impairments, including developmental disabilities, mental health disorders, other health impairments, and sensory processing disorders. Explores abilities and disabilities, rights, and potential needs of people with varying disabilities. Engages discussion considering societal, cultural, and historical barriers. Self-advocacy, family perspectives, and inclusive services are also explored. Participation in an aquatic program with preschoolers with and without disabilities is a required component of the course.
  • Ithaca College students enrolled in this course shall participate in a Water Safety Program for preschoolers with and without disabilities, with a focus on practicing safety in and around water (Racker Program). Participating Ithaca College students are under the direct supervision of an Ithaca College faculty member, and the College operates the Racker Program solely for the educational benefit of Ithaca College students. The Racker Program portion of HLTH-12500 occurs on Tuesdays of the Tuesday/Thursday class schedule.
  • Ithaca College shall make its facilities available for the instructional components of the Racker Program, subject to Ithaca College policies and procedures as well as the needs of other College departments. Facilities include, but are not limited to, the Kelsey Partridge Bird Natatorium indoor pool and the Ben Light Gymnasium.
  • Racker Program:
    • Racker children attending the Racker Program are in Racker Preschool Program (ages 3-5);
    • The Racker Program is offered as a free instructional class, with no cost to Racker preschool children nor their parents/guardians;
    • The Racker Program utilizes the Ithaca College indoor pool and participating children will enter a water environment during the Racker Program;
    • Racker charters buses that are appropriate for preschoolers and provides all of the transportation and supervision;
    • Racker personnel will be present at all times to provide supervision for participating Racker children. Racker holds supervision responsibilities as a licensed program under NYSED and OCFS regardless of location. Any personal care of the preschoolers (changing, toileting, etc.) is completed by Racker personnel. The Racker Program is consistent with the high standards of care and enrichment that define Racker’s services;
    • Racker children’s Parents/Guardians sign Parental Consent and Liability Release, Waiver and Covenant Not To Sue Forms;
    • Racker children are benefiting from this opportunity to interact with Ithaca College students and experience the joys of swimming in a safe and supportive environment. By fostering confidence, inclusion, and meaningful connections, this program exemplifies the high standards of care and enrichment that define Racker’s services. The Swim Program is a collaboration between Ithaca College and Racker that has provided new opportunities for Ithaca College students and essential skills for Racker children. For children with and without disabilities, water-based activities improve motor skills, coordination, and sensory integration. The program supports social interaction, emotional well-being, independence, and self-assurance in and around water as well. The benefits extend beyond what happens in the pool - by going to Ithaca College the children are learning to navigate a new environment and follow a new routine. The children are practicing interacting with unfamiliar people, which can be especially challenging for children on the autism spectrum, who often struggle even more with changes in social environments. By teaching water safety and basic swimming skills, Racker students gain essential life experience that can prevent accidents.
      *https://www.racker.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2025/04/Outlook-Spri…

**Information above posted 1-16-2026