Experiential Learning Cycle

Overview

• Experiential learning cycle is widely recognized and used in experiential learning theory.
• Contains four stages:
  • Experiencing
  • Reflecting
  • Thinking
  • Acting
• Offers an alternative to traditional information transmission in education.
• Provides a framework for actively engaging learners.

Key Concepts

Lifelong Learning Process

• It’s a continuous exchange process between a learner's internal world and external environment.
• Involves impressing learners with knowledge and coaching them in skillful expression.
• Moves beyond the traditional 'banking' concept of education (Paulo Freire).

Learning Cycle Mechanics

• Learning happens through concrete experience and abstract conceptualization.
• Transformed via reflective observation and active experimentation.
• Learning cycle evolves with increased understanding and skill.

Misunderstanding of Experiencing Mode

• Often equated with 'doing', but all learning cycle modes are experiences.
• Everyday experiences are influenced by interpretations of past generations.

The Role of Reflection

• Initiated by problems or strangeness outside of usual experiences (John Dewey).
• Concrete experiences that violate expectations prompt reflection (William James).

Brain and Learning Cycle

• James Zull's research links learning cycle and brain functions:
  • Sensory cortex: Concrete experiences.
  • Back integrative cortex: Reflective observations.
  • Front integrative cortex: Abstract conceptualization.
  • Motor cortex: Action.
• Educating changes the brain (physical changes in neurons).

Motivation in Learning

• Opposing modes of learning cycle:
  • Concrete experience vs. abstract thinking (William James analogy of scissors).
  • Reflecting vs. acting.
• Overemphasis on either can inhibit learning.
• Importance of praxis (Paulo Freire): Balancing reflection and action.

Learning Styles

• Individuals have different learning styles; educators should understand these to better facilitate learning.
• Learning styles formed by preference for certain learning modes.
• Full cycle learning: Engaging all learning styles holistically.
• Dynamic matching model: Educators should consider the subject matter and the learning approach.

Educator Roles Framework

• Four common roles:
  • Facilitator
  • Subject Expert
  • Standard Setter/Evaluator
  • Coach
• Roles help in applying ELT concepts effectively.

Assessment in Experiential Learning

• Requires diverse and complex methods.
• Should be holistic and evaluate integration of the learning cycle.
• Authentic assessment: Demonstrating knowledge in real-life contexts.
• Combines subject-centered and learner-centered questions.

Conclusion

• The experiential learning cycle is essential for deep understanding and skill acquisition.
• Emphasizes the transformation of learned information into actionable knowledge and skills.