Reflective Q

1 The following is a brief overview of Kolb’s theories and sets the stage for a better understanding of the more complex diagrams and material from Kolb presented in these learning modules. Experiential Learning (David A. Kolb) American educational theorist David A. Kolb believes “learning is the process whereby knowledge is created through the transformation of experience” (1984, p. 38). Four Stage Learning Cycle The theory presents a cyclical model of learning, consisting of four stages shown below. A learner may begin at any stage, but must follow each other in the sequence:

1. concrete experience (or “DO”) 2. reflective observation (or “OBSERVE”) 3. abstract conceptualization (or “THINK”) 4. active experimentation (or “PLAN”)

Figure 1. Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle.

Kolb’s four-stage learning cycle shows how experience is translated through reflection into concepts, which in turn are used as guides for active experimentation and the choice of new experiences. The first stage, concrete experience (CE), is where the learner actively experiences an activity such as a lab session or field work. The second stage, reflective observation (RO), is when the learner consciously reflects back on that experience. The third stage, abstract conceptualization (AC), is where the learner attempts to conceptualize a theory or model of what is observed. The fourth stage, active experimentation (AE), is where the learner is trying to plan how to test a model or theory or plan for a forthcoming experience.

2 Four Learning Styles Kolb identified four learning styles which correspond to these stages. The styles highlight conditions under which learners learn better. These styles are:

•assimilators, who learn better when presented with sound logical theories to consider •convergers, who learn better when provided with practical applications of concepts and theories •accommodators, who learn better when provided with “hands-on” experiences •divergers, who learn better when allowed to observe and collect a wide range of information

Diagram of Kolb's learning styles and learning stages The following diagram illustrates the relationship between the four-stages of learning and the four different learning styles. The stages of learning are depicted on the outer circle and in red are the four different learning styles. As the learner progresses through the learning stages, he/she will use the various learning styles depending on his/her preferences depending on he or she will process or “do” things (blue square) and how he or she will perceive or “think” about things (green square).

Source: •Kolb, David A. 1984. Experiential Learning: Experience as the Source of Learning and Development. Prentice-Hall, Inc., Englewood Cliffs, N.J.