1.5      Experiential Learning:
Previous experiences in life make a strong impact of what will be stored in memory.  In
reading, researchers found that prior knowledge brought into what is read will determine the
level of comprehension.  Schema theory describes this process, by which readers combine
their own knowledge with the information in the text to comprehend the text.  David Kolb’s
theory on experiential learning describes how past experiences help humans understand
new  experiences in order to put the experiences into perspective.  Kolb explains experiential
learning through the experiential learning cycle.  The four stages in the cycle are concrete
experience CE (feeling), reflective observation RO (watching), abstract generalization AG
(thinking), and active experimentation AE (doing).  Kolb’s four steps in the experiential
learning model can be used effectively to design learning experiences for adults.

Module 1

He also suggests that these steps in combination create four distinct learning styles, which will be
discussed later.  (Knowles, et al, 2005)  For Kolb, the dissemination of information alone is not learning,
but it is more the interaction between the content and experience.  Modifying old ideas is as important as
adding new ideas.  Kolb’s model of experiential learning builds on other models of problem-solving in action
research, as well as those of Dewey and Piaget.   Individuals need to identify the information, reflect how it will
affect them, compare it with their experiences, and think about how they will act on it.  The model to the right
illustrates Kolb’s experiential learning cycle.

Perception occurs through concrete experience and abstract conceptualization, while processing occurs
through reflective practice and active participation.  
To illustrate the cycle, the following is an example of learning occurring in these steps:

1.  Concrete experience-learners actually do something, such as a case study or role play.
2.  Reflective observation-learners reflect on their experience
3.  Abstract Conceptualization-learners receive information that explains their experience from the instructor.  
For example, the instructor would lecture or assign literature to read
4.  Active Experimentation-learners apply what they have learned in, for example, a problem solving exercise.