Experiential learning

Scenario

Experiential learning

The Learning Challenge – Narative

Research findings and teachers ’experience say that teaching is effective when it is based on the learner’s experience. However, experiential learning is still little used, although its value is high.Experiential learning is also called as ‘learning by doing’ and the training involves a two way interaction unlike the informational training methods which are more of one sided. Here the major focus is development of skills in the participants, which may or not be the case in informational training. Experiential learning is an immersive, participant focused active approach to learning that engages learners of all ages, backgrounds and experience levels. Experiential Learning is a subset of the broader field of Experiential Education which is a teaching philosophy with a multidisciplinary approach toward learning.

Solving the Problem: Activities for Learning Groups

Title of activity

Role play

Working on the activity – Suggestions

It is a conscious attempt to examine the various roles played in actual life, and is useful where participants share a similar experience which is difficult to communicate due to its emotional nature. It is a structured experience because learning takes place through the re-enactment of past experiences. It therefore allows learners to utilise their experiences of real life situations. This process is then subjected to critical reflection through effective feedback given by both the observers and the actors. The enactment is helpful in developing awareness at individual and group levels. The choice of a particular role play depends on the learning agenda, group of learners and trainer’s capacity.

Title of activity

Case study

Working on the activity – Suggestions

The case study method involves the use of others’ real life experiences, which are reflected upon and analysed by the learners so as to extract or arrive at new learning principles. These experiences may be sourced from an individual, a group, an organisation or a particular context. The learners’ own experiences, values and feelings form the basis for analysing others’ experiences. Depending on the subject matter, case studies (and stories) may be presented in written or verbal forms, or even through the medium of film or song, depending upon cultural appropriateness and the background and level of the learners. Case Study exposes learners to situations they might not ordinarily xperience in their own lives; exposes learners to similar experiences elsewhere to enable them to feel a sense of solidarity and validation with respect to their own experiences.

Solving the Problem: Self-reflection (educator’s reflection)

Reflecting on the Problem Solving measures taken to overcome the challenge
Complex social issues can be discussed in a non-threatening environment. It is particularly apt for issues dealing with complex emotional and attitudinal aspects of learning. Where the focus of the role play is on learning from past experience, it can be a powerful method if the focus of learning is awareness

Reflecting on the changes in the group dynamics
Experiential learning methods provide an opportunity for learners to experience, share reactions and observations; reflect upon implications and consequences; discuss patterns and dynamics; develop practical and conceptual understanding; helps to create new knowledge through collective reflection, analysis and synthesis

Reflecting on personal change
This process is then subjected to critical reflection through effective feedback given by both the observers and the actors. Helps learners to utilise their experiences of real life situations.

Points for Discussion with your Organisation

Experiential training is effective in a small institution where the activities are very diverse. Quality work requires different skills, and there is always a lack of time for that. It is also a great tool for training new employees.

Suggested Training Course available online