What is experiential learning?
Learning by doing. This is the basis for the experiential learning theory. Experiential learning focuses on the idea that the best ways to learn things is by actually having experiences (WGU, 2022). As a computer science student, this idea resonates with me. During my two co-ops (internships), I discovered that the material I learned in school was merely a foundation that got me through interviews. In the actual internships, I had to learn much more, with a typical ramp-up period of about four months before I could make meaningful contributions—considered a fast ramp-up. Usually, the ramp-up time ranges from six months to a year.
Kolb’s experiential learning theory
David Kolb is best known for his work on the experiential learning theory or ELT (WGU, 2022). Kolb published this model in 1984. The experiential learning theory works in four stages—concrete learning, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation.
The first two stages involve grasping an experience, while the latter two focus on transforming it.
- Concrete learning is when a learner gets a new experience, or interprets a past experience in a new way.
- Reflective observation is where the learner reflects on their experience personally. They use the lens of their experience and understanding to reflect on what this experience means.
- Abstract conceptualization happens as the learner forms new ideas or adjusts their thinking based on the experience and their reflection about it.
- Active experimentation is where the learner applies the new ideas to the world around them, to see if there are any modifications to be made. This process can happen over a short period of time, or over a long span of time.
Discussion
Kolb’s experiential learning theory highlights that learning is not a passive absorption of information but an active, dynamic process. This theory is particularly relevant in fields that require practical application, like computer science. My own experiences with internships confirm that real world application is crucial for deep understanding.
Experiential learning theory. Western Governors University. (2022, October 24). https://www.wgu.edu/blog/experiential-learning-theory2006.html
Hi Jackson,
Nice summary, this has made the thinking and design of experiential learning really clear.
I wonder if this is an approach that we can consider with our project? Teachers given information, reflecting on it in their current work, adjusting their thinking and learning of the benefits of a new idea, then implementing it within their own work (and some more reflection!).
I have to say, when completing my teacher training, it was the in-school experiences and applying lesson planning that really helped me to understand the core concepts. Much like your co-op experiences!
Hi Jackson,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on experiential learning. I thought your comment on how experiential learning emphasizes learning through direct experience rather than passive information absorption was valuable. Furthermore, I thought that your connection to Kolb’s model and your explanation of each of the four stages were interesting. Regarding your point on abstract conceptualization, I am wondering how this can be facilitated in a classroom setting?
Finally, I thought your point in the discussion relating to computer science and your own experience was engaging. I can understand how practical application through internships and co-ops is crucial for a deeper understanding of theoretical knowledge. Can you elaborate more on the role that these co-op programs play in enhancing the experiential learning process?
Hey Jackson,
Thanks for sharing your insights on experiential learning and Kolb’s theory! I agree that learning by doing is such an effective learning approach. I am glad you got to experience this in computer science through your co-ops! I have also had a lot of experience with this learning approach as an elementary education major, such as practicums. Through these hands-on learning experiences, I always feel like I am learning so much more than in my lecture classess, so I am quite grateful to have gotten these oppurtunities.
It sounds like a lot of experiential learning occurs outside of the classroom, so I was curious, how do you think experiential learning can be effectively incorporated into traditional classroom settings? Additionally, what our your thoughts on including this approach in our resource?