This mixed-methods study combined a survey instrument, the Learning Style Inventory (LSI), with a selected group of follow-up interviews for the purpose of determining how experiential practices affected student engagement and learning. Quantitative data analysis established students' preferences for more active involvement in learning practices and helped the researcher to develop an interview protocol. The small case study, derived from an examination of literature in the fields of experiential education, general education, and the liberal arts, specifically focused on first-year students and the general education curriculum. The researcher's need for deeper detail and validation led to the qualitative component, whereby, a narrative format, or oral interviews, aided in determining accuracy of the quantitative data. These findings not only confirmed the first phase of the study but also led to the conclusion that, in addition to being preferred, hands-on methodologies increased involvement of today's college students. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]