Benefits of Equine-Assisted Learning

Equine-assisted Learning is an experiential learning approach that promotes the development of life skills. This focus on life skills can be related to academic achievement and classroom behavior, personal growth and exploration, or professional pursuits such as leadership development, team building, and executive coaching.

EAL sessions can be individual or group sessions. Each session involves a horse interaction facilitated by the professional or professional team. Though there is always a lesson plan, a good facilitator will often follow the horse’s lead. Often the activities are problem-solving based, relationship building or focused on critical thinking skills. Though students can learn horsemanship skills through the sessions, it is usually not the primary goal. Most goals are focused on the development of life skills. Lessons are often groundwork or focused on relationships but could be mounted if it helps the client to meet specific goals.