What and Why of Experiential Learning

by | Jul 24, 2022 | Active Learning, Collaboration, Engagement, Experiential Learning, Peer Learning, Strategies for Mixed Modality Teaching

Experiential learning is the process of student-centered learning by doing. Instructors engage students through hands-on experiences and reflection. This process enables students to better connect knowledge from the classroom to real-world situations.1 

Kolb’s Cycle of Experiential Learning2

  1. Concrete experience: Students actively participate in a new experience that creates opportunities for learning.
  2. Reflective observation: Students review their situations and find meaning behind the experiences. 
  3. Abstract conceptualization: Students develop theories or ideas to explain their experiences. They conceptualize problems and/or issues that they can apply in future experiences. 
  4. Active experimentation: Students experiment and apply their concepts to solve new problems, make decisions, and influence people and/or events.

Benefits 

Students gain insight into their skills and interests. They have opportunities develop leadership skills and collaborate with diverse organizations and people. Overall, students have a greater appreciation of their communities while also gaining a better understanding of course material. 

Getting Started3

  • Decide how your course could be more effectively instructed with experiential learning.
  • Consider activities that align with the students’ needs and course learning objectives. 
  • Think about assessment methods that would match the activity.

Activity Ideas

In-Person4

  • Apprenticeship experiences
  • Clinical experiences 
  • Cooperative education experiences
  • Fellowship experiences
  • Field work experiences
  • Internship experiences
  • Practicum experiences
  • Service-learning experiences
  • Student-teaching experiences
  • Study abroad experiences
  • Volunteer experiences

Virtual

Many examples above including problem-based learning, case-based learning, project-based learning, and inquiry-based learning (and more) can also be modified to be a virtual learning experience. For example, students can partner with an organization to solve a problem in their community as a service learning experience. 

 

See also:

Sources

  1. “What is Experiential Learning and Why is it Important?” by Kent State University
  2. “‘I Do and I Understand’ – Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory Explained” by Explorance
  3. “How to Integrate Experiential Learning Into Your Course” by Miami University
  4. “Experiential Learning” by Northern Illinois University Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning

Image Attributions: Adrien Coquet by the Noun Project (CC-BY)