The integration of Team-Based Learning (TBL) and Experiential Learning (EL) modalities offers an innovative instructional framework that fosters student engagement, enhances learning outcomes, and creates meaningful opportunities to address critical community needs. This presentation highlights the implementation of TBL and EL within a Bachelor of Social Work curriculum that was designed to train students in substance misuse prevention while simultaneously generating measurable impacts in local communities. A mixed-methods study involving 61 students over three semesters demonstrated the effectiveness of this pedagogical approach in achieving both academic and community-centered objectives. Within a simulated Drug Free Communities coalition framework, students collaborated on TBL activities and participated in hands-on EL projects, such as Naloxone distribution, social marketing campaigns, and drug take-back events. These efforts yielded notable community outcomes, including saving a life with Naloxone, collecting 7.6 tons of trash, and disseminating public health messaging to over 7,000 individuals. Academically, students achieved a cumulative average of 97%, while “engaged” students produced an 80% pass rate on the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium’s Prevention Specialist Certification Exam. This model highlights the potential of combining TBL and EL to effectively educate students while also delivering significant benefits to communities. Implications for TBL practitioners will be discussed.
