Experiential

Learning
Theory
What is experiential learning?
 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. Those experiences then stick out in your mind and
help you retain information and remember facts. 
 Kolb’s experiential learning theory

David Kolb is best known for his work on the experiential learning theory or ELT.
Kolb published this model in 1984, getting his influence from other great theorists
including John Dewey, Kurt Lewin, and Jean Piaget. The experiential learning theory
works in four stages—concrete learning, reflective observation, abstract
conceptualization, and active experimentation.

 Concrete learning.
 Reflective observation.
 Abstract conceptualization.
 Active experimentation.
 Kolb's experiential learning cycle model

The experiential learning cycle rests on the idea that each person has a specific
type of learning tendencies, and they are thus dominant in certain stages of
experiential learning.
The four learning styles are:
 Diverging.
 Assimilating.
 Converging.
 Accommodating.
 Experiential learning examples and Benefits of
experiential learning
Examples:
• Going to the zoo to learn about animals
through instead of reading about them.
• Growing observation, is a garden to learn
about photosynthesis instead of watching
a movie about it.
• Hoping on a bicycle to try and learn to
ride, instead of listening to your parent
explain the concept.
Benefits:
• Opportunity to immediately apply
knowledge.
• Promotion of teamwork.
• Improved motivation.
• Opportunity for reflection.
• Real world practice.
 Experiential learning activities to include in the
classroom.

 Field trips
 Art projects
 Science experiments
 Mock cities and trials
 Role playing
 Reflection and journaling
 Internship opportunities
 Interactive classroom games
Thank you for listening!