What is Experiential Learning? Understanding the Power of Learning by Doing

School was super tough for me.

It was a struggle to stay focused in class, listening to the teacher go on and on about topics that seemed so far away from my everyday reality. 

Have you ever found yourself daydreaming during a lecture, thinking about what you would do once class was over?

Well, let me tell you, that was me! In fact, it was a real struggle until I stumbled upon this thing called experiential learning. 

Picture this.

Instead of listening to your history teacher ramble about the French Revolution, you’re actually transported to the noisy, chaotic streets of 18th century Paris.

You feel the excitement, the fear, the passion of those around you.

You’re not just learning about history—you’re living it. 

That’s experiential learning.

It’s learning by doing and not just by hearing or reading. 

Why is this so important? 

Because it’s a game-changer.

Experiential learning in modern education breathes life into subjects that might seem dry or abstract. It makes learning an active, engaging process.

Think of all the ways this can happen.

Internships, study abroad programs, field trips, lab experiments, and even role-play—these are all types of experiential learning activities that immerse us in the topic, making it easier to grasp and remember.

Ever heard of Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle?

It’s a theory that shows how we learn from our experiences. We have an experience, we think about it, we learn from it, and then we apply what we’ve learned to a new situation. It’s this continuous loop of learning, and it’s at the heart of experiential learning.

And it’s not just for kids or college students.

Experiential learning for adults is huge, and it’s revolutionizing the way businesses train their teams.

Everything from leadership training to team building exercises now use experiential learning to develop skills and create a better work environment.

From my own life, I can tell you that experiential learning has been a game-changer.

It transformed me from a disinterested student to a lifelong learner.

If it worked for me, imagine what it can do for you.

So, how about we leave the old, stuffy ways of learning in the past and get our hands dirty with some real-life, practical experiences? 

Defining Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is a dynamic approach where you learn by doing, directly experiencing, and actively participating in something.

Picture it as getting your hands dirty to understand the nuances of a concept better, rather than merely sitting and hearing about it.

When you engage in experiential learning activities, you don’t just read about a subject or listen to someone talk about it. Instead, you dive right in and experience it for yourself. It’s learning that has you at the heart of the action, learning in an interactive and practical manner.

The concept is like learning to ride a bike – you didn’t get your balance right by reading a manual or watching someone ride, right?

You got on the bike, felt the wobbles, made a few falls and then eventually, you just got it.

That’s experiential learning in action.

The History and Evolution of the Concept

Now, where did this concept of experiential learning come from? 

Experiential learning isn’t a new idea. Its roots stretch back to the days of Aristotle and his belief that “for the things we have to learn before we can do them, we learn by doing them.”

Fast forward to the 20th century, and educational theorists like John Dewey and Kurt Lewin built upon this, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning in education. 

But it was David Kolb who, in the 1980s, made a significant contribution by introducing Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle – a theory that continues to influence how we approach learning in classrooms, businesses, and adult education today.

The Experiential Learning Cycle

Let’s delve a little deeper into Kolb’s contribution.

Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle explains how we learn from our experiences. The cycle consists of four stages:

Stage	Description	Example
Concrete Experience	A direct, hands-on experience.	You’ve just given a speech in front of a large crowd for the first time.
Reflective Observation	Thinking about how the experience went.	Did you stutter or forget some lines? Or did the audience applaud enthusiastically?
Abstract Conceptualization	Forming theories based on the reflection of the experience.	Using more eye contact might engage the audience better.
Active Experimentation	Applying what was learned to new situations.	The next time you give a speech, you maintain more eye contact to keep the audience hooked.

Remember, experiential learning is not a one-and-done deal. It’s an ongoing cycle of doing, reflecting, thinking, and then doing again. That’s the beauty of this learning process.

The Role of Experiential Learning in Education

Think back to your school days for a moment.

Do you remember those lessons where the teacher simply lectured, and you tried your hardest to stay awake?

Now, contrast that with the times you were doing something hands-on, like a science experiment, an art project, or even a school play.

Which memories are stronger?

I bet it’s the ones where you were actively involved. That’s the power of experiential learning.

Experiential learning plays a crucial role in education because it enhances understanding and retention. When we learn by doing, we’re not just passively absorbing information.

We’re engaging our minds in critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. And because we’re often physically involved too, we’re stimulating multiple senses, which has been shown to boost memory retention.

Experiential learning isn’t confined to a particular age group or educational setting. From primary school students to adults in vocational training, this learning approach has a wide reach.

Experiential Learning in Various Educational Settings

In schools, experiential learning comes into play during field trips, project-based assignments, and interactive lessons.

Have you ever seen the spark in a child’s eyes when they visit a zoo after learning about animals in class?

That’s experiential learning in action!

At universities, this approach is woven into seminars, labs, internships, and study abroad programs.

Think of medical students practicing their skills on dummies or doing rounds in a hospital. They’re learning through experience.

And let’s not forget vocational training.

This is where experiential learning really shines. Be it learning to cook in a culinary school, fixing cars in a mechanic’s workshop, or coding a website in a tech bootcamp, hands-on experience is at the heart of these programs.

Real-world Examples and Case Studies of Experiential Learning

But don’t just take my word for it. Let’s look at some case studies that show the power of experiential learning.

The Montessori Method

An iconic example of experiential learning in action is the Montessori Method. This education model encourages children to learn through exploration and independent activities.

There’s less lecturing and more doing.

Children develop their skills and understanding at their own pace by interacting with specially designed materials.

The result?

Montessori students often showcase superior problem-solving skills, social awareness, and creativity.

Cooperative Education at Northeastern University

At Northeastern University, they take experiential learning to another level with their Cooperative Education Program. Students alternate semesters of academic study with semesters of full-time employment in positions related to their academic or career interests. This gives them a head start in their careers, equipped with practical skills and a better understanding of their field.

Starting to see the picture?

Experiential learning in education is like turning the whole world into a classroom.

It opens up a universe of learning opportunities beyond textbooks and lectures.

And the best part?

You’ll not only remember what you’ve learned better, but you’ll also understand how it applies to the real world.

Benefits of Experiential Learning

Now that we’ve seen how experiential learning works in education and the real world, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty – the benefits.

Why should you, as a learner, consider experiential learning?

Development of Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Remember when we talked about experiential learning as a cycle of doing, reflecting, and learning?

This process naturally cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By directly engaging with a problem, you’re not just looking for an answer. You’re figuring out the how and the why, the cause and effect, the solutions, and the potential outcomes.

This active engagement with the task at hand stretches your thinking abilities, helping you become a better problem solver.

For instance, let’s say you’re learning to code. When faced with a bug, you don’t just learn to fix it, you learn to understand why it occurred in the first place and how to prevent it in the future. That’s critical thinking at work!

Enhancement of Interpersonal and Communication Skills

Experiential learning often involves collaboration, making it an excellent way to enhance interpersonal and communication skills.

When you’re working with others on a project or problem, you learn to communicate your ideas effectively, listen to others, and negotiate solutions.

This is true whether you’re in a classroom, a business setting, or an online forum.

Consider a team project at work. You learn to articulate your points, respond to others’ inputs, and build upon ideas to achieve a common goal. These are essential skills in today’s collaborative work environments.

Increased Adaptability and Ability to Handle Real-World Situations

Experiential learning helps you become more adaptable and better prepared to handle real-world situations.

When you learn by doing, you’re often exposed to unpredictable circumstances, just like in the real world.

This experience helps you become more flexible and versatile, preparing you for the unexpected turns life can throw your way.

Think about an emergency drill. By participating in it, you’re better prepared to respond in a real emergency, as you’ve already experienced a similar situation.

Improved Motivation and Engagement in the Learning Process

Let’s face it, learning by doing is generally more exciting than passively listening to a lecture. Experiential learning drives motivation and engagement because it’s hands-on, active, and often involves subjects relevant to you. 

Have you ever lost track of time while engrossed in a DIY project?

That’s because you’re actively involved, challenged, and enjoying what you’re doing. The same applies to experiential learning. It’s an engaging approach that sparks curiosity and keeps boredom at bay.

Experiential learning is more than just a learning style; it’s a holistic approach that not only enhances your understanding of a subject but also helps develop critical skills and attributes.

It’s about building a more rounded, adaptable, and competent individual, ready to take on the challenges of the real world.

Implementing Experiential Learning Strategies

It’s clear that experiential learning packs quite a punch in terms of benefits, but you might be wondering, “how can I integrate experiential learning into my training strategy?”

That’s what we’re diving into next.

Integrating Experiential Learning into Training Strategy

Like any effective strategy, the incorporation of experiential learning starts with understanding your audience – their needs, skills, and interests. Once you’ve got a good grasp on these, you can design experiences that resonate with your learners.

One common approach is the “Learn-Do-Reflect” model.

First, introduce the concept (Learn). Then, provide a hands-on activity to apply the concept (Do).

Finally, facilitate a reflection session to help learners connect their experiences to the concept (Reflect).

This model creates a learning environment where learners are actively involved in the experience, giving them a platform to apply their new knowledge and skills in a practical way.

Using AI, Simulations, Internships, Mentorship, and Projects

Technology has opened up a world of possibilities for experiential learning. For instance, Artificial Intelligence (AI) can create personalized learning paths based on a learner’s progress and preferences.

Simulations, be it flight simulators for pilots or virtual stock markets for finance students, allow learners to practice skills in a safe environment. These realistic, immersive experiences help learners prepare for real-world scenarios without the associated risks.

Internships and mentorship programs are yet another way to implement experiential learning. They offer a practical view of the professional world, allowing learners to apply their knowledge, gain experience, and learn from those already in the field.

Projects, especially those that solve real-world problems, provide learners an opportunity to work collaboratively, develop solutions, and see the impact of their work.

The Role of Reflection in Experiential Learning

We’ve saved the best for last: Reflection. Remember the “Learn-Do-Reflect” model we talked about earlier?

Reflection is the final, but arguably the most critical step in that model. It’s where true learning happens.

Reflection involves looking back at the experience, understanding what happened, and figuring out how to apply this understanding to future situations. This process makes the learning personal and relevant, enabling learners to make connections between the experience and their existing knowledge.

For example, after a role-play exercise, you could facilitate a group discussion, ask learners to write a reflection essay, or conduct a debriefing session. The aim is to encourage learners to think critically about their experience and draw valuable insights.

Implementing experiential learning strategies requires thoughtful planning and a learner-centric approach. But the payoff? A more engaging, effective, and memorable learning experience. 

So, how will you bring experiential learning to life in your training programs?

The Future of Experiential Learning

As we look ahead, it’s clear that experiential learning isn’t just a trend. It’s a significant shift in the way we think about education and skill development.

So, what does the future hold for this hands-on approach?

Emerging Trends and Research in Experiential Learning

One exciting trend is the growing focus on combining experiential learning with technology.

We’ve already touched on this with AI and simulations, but the possibilities are expanding. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), for instance, are allowing learners to immerse themselves in experiences that were once impossible inside a traditional classroom.

On the research front, studies continue to support the efficacy of experiential learning. They show that it not only enhances understanding but also improves retention and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world situations.

The Potential of Experiential Learning in the Digital Age

In this digital age, experiential learning is more accessible than ever. Online platforms provide opportunities for virtual internships, global collaborations, and interactive lessons.

This allows learners from all walks of life to benefit from experiential learning, regardless of their location or circumstances.

The Role of Experiential Learning in Lifelong Learning

Experiential learning plays a pivotal role in lifelong learning. It’s not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about building the skills and habits to learn from experiences throughout life.

This approach fosters a growth mindset, encouraging individuals to continually adapt and evolve in an ever-changing world.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Future with Experiential Learning

We’ve journeyed from the history and definition of experiential learning, through its applications and benefits, to its future possibilities. The question isn’t really “what is experiential learning?” but rather “what can experiential learning do for us?” The answer is, quite a lot.

Experiential learning equips learners with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

It enhances interpersonal and communication skills and increases adaptability. It makes learning engaging and relevant. And it prepares us not just for exams or job applications, but for real-world situations and challenges.

For learning professionals, embracing experiential learning means creating learning environments that are interactive, dynamic, and reflective. It’s about facilitating experiences and guiding learners to make meaningful connections.

Experiential learning has immense power and potential.

It’s not just a methodology or a theory. It’s a transformative approach to learning, capable of shaping how we understand and interact with the world.

So, let’s make the most of this journey of discovery, learning by doing, and reflecting along the way. After all, isn’t that what true learning is all about?

Remember, learning doesn’t stop here. It’s a lifelong journey, and experiential learning is your guide. So, stay curious, stay engaged, and most importantly, never stop learning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is meant by experiential learning?

Experiential learning is a method of education that involves learning through direct experience or participation. It’s about doing something first-hand, then reflecting on the process and outcome. It’s the idea of “learning by doing,” where knowledge is gained through real-world experiences and active involvement.

What are the 6 types of experiential learning?

The six types of experiential learning are:

• Internships: Students work in a professional setting to gain practical experience.
• Field Experience: Learning takes place in the field related to the subject, like archaeological digs for archaeology students.
• Service Learning: Combines classroom instruction with meaningful community service.
• Study Abroad: learners by immersing themselves in a different culture and environment.
• Research: Involves conducting studies or investigations to gain deeper knowledge about a subject.
• Projects and Presentations: Students complete a task or project and present their findings.

What are the 5 levels of experiential learning?

There isn’t a universally accepted model for “5 levels of experiential learning.” The most common model related to experiential learning is David Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle, which includes four stages: Concrete Experience, Reflective Observation, Abstract Conceptualization, and Active Experimentation. It’s possible that the “5 levels” could refer to a specific model in a particular educational context, or it may be a misinterpretation or variation of Kolb’s model.

What is the difference between active learning and experiential learning?

Active learning and experiential learning are both interactive educational approaches, but they differ slightly. Active learning is a broader term that includes any learning activity that involves the learner actively participating in the process, as opposed to passively receiving information (like in a lecture). This could be group work, discussion, problem-solving activities, or quizzes.

Experiential learning, on the other hand, is a type of active learning that specifically involves learning from direct experiences. It’s about applying what’s learned to real-world scenarios and reflecting on the outcomes.

Why is experiential learning so important?

Experiential learning is important because it allows learners to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations. This enhances understanding and retention of knowledge. It also develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills as students have to navigate real-world challenges. It also boosts confidence as learners gain hands-on experience in a safe, educational environment.

What does experiential learning look like in the classroom?

Experiential learning in the classroom can take many forms. It could be a science experiment where students test a hypothesis, a role-playing activity to explore different perspectives, a field trip to a historical site, or a project where students create a business plan. The key is that students are actively engaged in an experience, rather than passively absorbing information.

What are the experiential training techniques?

Experiential training techniques include:

• Role-Playing: Participants act out scenarios to understand different viewpoints.
• Simulations: A realistic situation is created where participants can practice skills or decision-making.
• Guided Exploration: Participants learn by exploring a subject or environment, guided by a facilitator.
• Case Studies: Real-world examples are examined to develop understanding and analytical skills.
• Hands-on Activities: Participants learn by doing a task or activity themselves.
• Group Projects: Teams work together to complete a task or solve a problem.

What are the 3 experiential learning theories?

Three significant theories related to experiential learning are:

• David Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory: This theory proposes a four-stage learning cycle: Concrete Experience, Reflective Observation, Abstract Conceptualization, and Active Experimentation.
• John Dewey’s Learning Through Experience: Dewey emphasizes the role of experience in education and the importance of reflection.
• Jean Piaget’s Constructivist Theory: Piaget argues that learners construct knowledge based on their experiences.

What are two activities of experiential learning?

Two examples of experiential learning activities could be:

• Field Trips: Taking students to a museum, factory, or nature reserve allows them to learn firsthand about a topic of study.
• Project-Based Learning: Students work on a complex task or problem over an extended period, applying knowledge and skills from various areas.

How do you implement experiential learning?

Implementing experiential learning involves several steps:

1. Identify Learning Objectives: What should students learn from the experience?
2. Design the Experience: Create or identify an activity that aligns with the learning objectives.
3. Prepare the Students: Provide any necessary background information or skills needed for the experience.
4. Facilitate the Experience: Guide the students through the activity, providing help as needed.
5. Reflect: After the activity, guide students in reflecting on the experience and what they learned.
6. Apply: Help students see how they can apply what they’ve learned to new situations.

What is cognitive vs experiential learning?

Cognitive learning is about understanding concepts, absorbing facts, and gaining knowledge through listening, reading, or observation. It’s often associated with traditional classroom instruction.

Experiential learning, however, is more hands-on. It involves applying knowledge and concepts to real-world situations, learning through experience, and reflecting on those experiences to gain deeper understanding.

What is the opposite of experiential learning?

The opposite of experiential learning could be considered passive learning. Passive learning happens when learners take in information without actively participating in the learning process. This often occurs in lecture-based environments where learners primarily listen or read without engaging in activities or reflections.

Is experiential learning a pedagogy?

Yes, experiential learning is a pedagogy, which means it’s a method or practice of teaching. It’s centered on the idea that learning is most effective when students can engage directly with the subject matter through hands-on experience and reflection.