Experiential Education
Jeffrey P. Bouman, Director of the Service Learning Center
Don DeGraaf, Professor of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Dance, and Sport
Christian School Teacher
Winter 2006

I hear and I forget, I see and I remember, I do and I understand." —Chinese proverb

A casual observer watching a group of students playing Smaug's Jewels (see sidebar) sees only a game with students attempting to steal the good stuff from Smaug, who is standing in the middle of the classroom. Although the participants are having fun, it is much more than a game. If the observer sticks around long enough, he or she will see the group discuss what the good stuff is in their classroom, what possible things might rob them of the good stuff, and how students can work together with the teacher to protect the good stuff. An activity like Smaug's Jewels can be a powerful tool for developing a safe environment for students. It creates a context for learning and helps the group identify what they are going to pay attention to while they are together. It becomes a metaphor for how students can work together to create the kind of classroom they would like to have.

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