David Kolb's Experiential Learning Model

Introduction

• David Kolb: American emeritus professor of organizational behavior, learning specialist
• Developed the Experiential Learning Model (Kolb's Learning Cycle) published in 1984
• Focuses on how individuals learn and understanding learning styles
• Important for coaching and mentoring to tailor learning to individuals' abilities

Key Concepts of the Model

• Reflects the way we learn from experiences
• Supports the lifelong learning concept
• Learning style preference is a product of two pairs of variables (axes)
  • Horizontal Axis (Processing Continuum)
    • Active (doing) on the left
    • Passive (watching) on the right
  • Vertical Axis (Perception Continuum)
    • Abstract (thinking) at the bottom
    • Concrete (feeling) at the top

First Dimension: Four Elements of Learning

1. Concrete Experience
   • Involvement in experiences, sensitivity to others' feelings
2. Reflective Observation
   • Passive observation, developing insights from experiences
3. Abstract Conceptualization
   • Creating theories to explain observations through logical analysis
4. Active Experimentation
   • Applying new theories to solve problems and influence actions

• The learning process can start with any of the four elements but typically begins with Concrete Experience.

Second Dimension: Four Learning Styles

1. Diverger
   • Upper right corner: Passive and Concrete
   • Innovative approach, sensitive to feelings, prefers brainstorming
2. Assimilator
   • Lower right corner: Passive and Abstract
   • Integrates observations, prefers structured information delivery
3. Converger
   • Lower left corner: Active and Abstract
   • Practical application, prefers problem-solving and decision-making
4. Accommodator
   • Upper left corner: Active and Concrete
   • Adapts through trial and error, intuitive problem-solving

Instructional Methods for Learning Styles

• Diverger:
  • Use lecture method focusing on specifics, hands-on exploration
• Assimilator:
  • Prefer organized delivery; lectures followed by demonstrations
• Converger:
  • Interactive instruction, computer-assisted learning, problem sets
• Accommodator:
  • Encourage independent discovery, active participation

Relationship Between Dimensions

• Learning styles emerge from the intersection of the two axes:
  • Diverger: Concrete Experience to Reflective Observation
  • Assimilator: Reflective Observation to Abstract Conceptualization
  • Converger: Abstract Conceptualization to Active Experimentation
  • Accommodator: Active Experimentation to Concrete Experience

Practical Application of the Model

• Example 1: Installing new machines
  • Start with Divergers for Concrete Experience, then Assimilators, Convergers, and finally Accommodators
• Example 2: Learning a new management skill
  • Engage in all four modes for comprehensive learning

Criticism of the Model

• Focuses solely on cognitive dimensions, lacking psychodynamic and societal considerations
• No guidance on when to shift between learning styles
• Overall, a holistic model consistent with natural learning processes.