Let me take you the time of Arjuna - The great Archer till today. In his very first class in
gurukul, his teacher, the great Dronocharya handed him bow and arrow and asked to shoot
in the eye of the bird made out of wood.
Arjuna aimed the bird’s eye, and release the arrow, and it hit the target. That day, Guru
Dronocharya, taught the students, ‘Importance of Focus’ with one of the best ever called
experiments.
This is a classis example of ‘Experiential learning’, where learning begins after the
experiment.
In this post, we’ll discuss about experiential learning, related theories, and advantages.
So, let’s dive deep into the concept of experiential learning!
What Is Experiential Learning?
The actual learning starts after experiment.
It is a type of educational methodology where students perform experiment, analyse the
result, and explore the several applications.
Experiential learning focuses on the following:
Students get the authority to experiments, reflects on their finding, and made learning secure.
Students get to explore the various applications of one concept.
Students get to list down the various benefits/disadvantages on the nature, on the society, and for the society development.
It focuses on student’s engagement, empowering critical thinking, and holistic growth.
What Are Experiential Learning Theories?
Experiential learning has always been a subject to study, and explore for research scholars. Most of these scholars have come up of their individual narration of experiential learning theory.
Here’re the mostly accepted experiential learning theories:
Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory (ELT):
The theory proposes a four-stage learning cycle: concrete experience, reflective observation,
abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation.
According to Kolb, learning occurs through the transformation of experiences as individuals
engage in a continuous cycle of experiencing, reflecting, thinking, and acting.
Dewey’s experiential learning theory:
There is an intimate and necessary relation between the process of actual experience and education. ~ John Dewey, 1938
John Dewey's theory of experiential learning emphasizes the importance of active engagement with the learning environment.
He believed that learning is an ongoing process that involves connecting experiences with
new knowledge.
Dewey emphasized the role of reflection and problem-solving in making meaning out of
experiences and constructing knowledge.
Vygotsky's Social Constructivism:
Lev Vygotsky's theory of social constructivism emphasizes the role of social interaction in
the learning process.
According to Vygotsky, learning is a collaborative activity where individuals acquire
knowledge and skills through social interactions with more knowledgeable others.
Experiential learning, in this theory, involves engaging in real-world tasks with the support
of peers or mentors who provide guidance and scaffolding.
Subject-wise examples of Experiential Learning
Here’re the subject-wise examples that can be used to enhance the learning environment.
Science: Conducting experiments and investigations, such as growing plants, observing the
water cycle, or exploring chemical reactions. Students can collect data, make observations,
and draw conclusions based on their experiences.
History: Organizing role-playing activities where students take on the roles of historical
figures or simulate historical events. This allows them to gain a deeper understanding of the
context and perspectives of the time period.
Language Arts: Creating and performing plays, skits, or debates related to literature or
social issues. Students can embody characters, express their opinions, and develop
communication skills through active participation.
Mathematics: Using manipulatives or real-life scenarios to solve mathematical problems.
For example, measuring and building structures to understand geometry concepts or using
money and budgets to learn about financial literacy.
Environmental Studies: Going on field trips to natural habitats, parks, or gardens to
observe and study ecosystems. Students can engage in hands-on activities like planting trees,
collecting specimens, or conducting surveys to understand environmental concepts.
Physical Education: Engaging in team sports, outdoor activities, or adventure-based
learning. Students can develop skills like teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving while
participating in physical challenges.
Technology: Designing and building prototypes, coding programs, or creating multimedia
projects. Students can apply their knowledge in a practical and creative manner, fostering
problem-solving skills and digital literacy.
Social Sciences: Conducting interviews, surveys, or community service projects. These
activities enable students to explore social issues, interact with diverse communities, and
develop empathy and civic responsibility.
There could be many such activities that could be conducted as per the grade or learning level of the students.
Benefits:
Using experiential learning in the classroom offers numerous benefits for students. Here are five key advantages:
Increased Engagement: Experiential learning actively involves students in hands-on
activities, sparking their interest and motivation. By connecting learning to real-world experiences, students find relevance in their studies and become more engaged in the learning process. This heightened engagement promotes better retention and understanding of the subject matter.
Enhanced Retention and Understanding: Experiential learning encourages students to apply their knowledge in practical contexts.
By actively experiencing concepts, students develop a deeper understanding of the material and can make connections between theory and practice. This active engagement enhances long-term retention of the information.
Development of Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Experiential learning promotes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Through hands-on experiences, students encounter challenges, analyze situations, and devise solutions. They learn to think critically, evaluate options, and adapt their strategies based on outcomes.
These skills are transferable and valuable across various academic disciplines and real-life situations.
Fostering Collaboration and Communication Skills: Experiential learning often involves teamwork, collaboration, and communication. Students engage in group activities, share ideas, and work together to achieve common goals. They learn to communicate effectively, listen to others' perspectives, and resolve conflicts. These collaborative experiences promote social and interpersonal skills, preparing students for future work environments and relationships.
Personal Growth and Self-Confidence: Experiential learning provides opportunities for students to step out of their comfort zones, take risks, and learn from failures. Through these experiences, students develop resilience, self-confidence, and a growth mindset. They become more self-aware, recognize their strengths and areas for improvement, and build a sense of accomplishment as they overcome challenges and achieve success.
Get To Practice Experiential Learning With Your Class: The Conclusion
I hear and I forget, I see and I remember, I do and I understand. ~ Confucius, 450 BC
In the world of daily evolvement, experiential learning plays a huge role. Children perform an activity, analyse their conclusion, develop a thought, and think of its possible application.
A person learns through his or her life’s experiences the most, and this learning starts since the childhood, and continue until death.
Experiential learning gives the environment to the students to make mistakes, and they analyse them to overcome then in their next try.
Through this the learning become long-lasting, and student’s confidence enhances too. So, start practising experiential learning in your class from today, and see the development happening!
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