User:Aashitha6/Kolb experiential learning model

Kolb's experiential learning theory Kolb's experiential learning theory was given by David Kolb.David Kolb published his model in 1984.He was inspired by the work of Kurt Lewin who was a gestalt psychologist in Berlin. Kolb's experiential learning theory works on two levels :a four stage cycle of learning and four separate learning styles.Kolb's theory has a holistic prespective which includes experience,perception,cognition and behavior.

The experiential learning cycle

The learning cycle basically involves four stages namely: concrete learning, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization and active experimentation.Effective learning can be seen when the learner progress through the cycle. the learner can also enter the cycle at any stage of the cycle with logical sequence.

The first stage is concrete learning where there is encounter of a new experience or reinterpretation of existing experience then it is followed by next stage reflective observation where one reflects on the experience on personal basis after this is abstract conceptualization where new ideas are formed based on the reflection or could be modifications of the existing abstract ideas.Lastly,active experimentation stage is where a learner will apply the ideas to his surroundings to see if there is any modifications in the next appearance of the experience all this will lead to next concrete experience.This can happen over a short duration or over a long duration of time.

educational implications

the educational implications of the experiential learning theory are:

• it helps the teacher to develop more appropriate learning opportunities for the learners
• teachers should design activities that will give opportunities to all the learners to learn in the best way which suits them.
• the activities carried out should make the learner to go through the whole process of the experiential learning cycle.