MoeTerm: Learning Beyond the Classroom
MoeTerm is a new trip and event introduced at Moeller this year, offering what’s described as the ultimate version of real learning. It’s a four-day, all-immersive experience that takes students out of the classroom and into hands-on environments. With over 35 exciting courses, MoeTerm
promotes personal growth and helps students develop real-world skills. Participants also hear from industry experts and have time to reflect on their experiences.
This initiative embraces the concept of experiential learning, a method where students engage directly in practical experiences. Moeller has already begun incorporating this approach through new classes focused on design thinking and hub-style learning. These short-term courses are designed to help students view learning from fresh perspectives and reflect on how these experiences shape their personal development. Through this dynamic process, students deepen their understanding of concepts, sharpen critical thinking, ignite curiosity, and enhance leadership skills.
The MoeTerm catalog offers something for every type of learner. Some courses involve biking, coaching, or exploring crime scene investigation. Others focus on creativity, such as cooking, photography, or filmmaking. For those interested in service, there are opportunities to volunteer and give back to the community. Each course is crafted to provide memorable experiences that extend beyond the traditional school year.
This year, several courses have proven especially popular. The cooking class filled up within minutes, with students eager to improve their culinary skills. Travel-based courses also drew significant interest, including trips to theme parks and even international destinations like Greece. Another favorite was the sports media course, where students practiced broadcasting and reporting on athletics.
Mr. Shannon, head of the “Moeller Master Chefs” culinary program, initially agreed to an interview about MoeTerm and his course. He shared his thoughts on experiential learning, saying, “Cooking is biology, chemistry, physics, and art all rolled into one. I thought people would want to be in this course.” His goal is for students to appreciate the value of food and understand the effort behind its preparation. He added, “I hope they learn to value the food they have, that someone had to prepare it, and it shouldn’t be wasted.” Mr. Shannon is enthusiastic about MoeTerm, especially the opportunity to meet new people and see students adapt to new environments—an experience he believes is one of the most rewarding aspects of the program.