Do you ever wonder why you remember a field trip or a hands-on activity better than a lecture? It’s because of the Kolb Experiential Learning Cycle. This process suggests that we learn best through concrete experiences, such as active participation, followed by reflection, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation.
In other words, we learn by doing, reflecting on what we did, creating meaning based on our experiences, and then trying it again with new knowledge and insight. This cycle helps us improve and grow our skills, knowledge, and creativity.
For example, let’s say you are learning how to cook. You start with observing someone cook, then take on the task yourself with guidance. After cooking, you reflect on what you did well and what you need to work on. Next, you study the science behind cooking and plan how to improve. Lastly, you experiment with new recipes and techniques to continue learning and growing.
The Kolb Experiential Learning Cycle is not just for cooking, but for everything we do. It can be applied in the classroom, workplace, and day-to-day life. By actively engaging with the world around us, reflecting on our experiences, and experimenting with new ideas and techniques, we can continually improve and achieve our goals.
