How Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle Can Empower Your Success

“Learning is the process whereby knowledge is created via the transformation of experience” [1] “Kolb’s approach synthesizes goal-directed & behavioural learning theories to create a learning cycle which values process & the ongoing nature of learning” [2]

David Kolb, the American educational theorist, published his brilliant experiential learning theory, back in 1984. The latter operates on two levels: a 4-stage cycle of learning, and 4 distinct learning styles. A large percentage of Kolb’s theory relates to the learner’s cognitive processes. Indeed, he notes that: “learning involves the acquisition of abstract concepts that can be applied flexibly in a range of situations. In his theory, the impetus for the development of new concepts is provided by new experiences” [1].

The Experiential Learning Cycle

Kolb’s experiential learning style theory is usually portrayed by a 4 stage learning cycle through which the learner ‘touches all the bases’

1. Concrete Experience: You encounter a new situation or experience; or reinterpret an existing one.
2. Reflective Observation of the New Experience: You give special value to any inconsistencies between your experience and understanding.
3. Abstract Conceptualization: Your reflection brings up a new idea, or alters an existing abstract concept (that is to say, you have learned from your experience)
4. Active Experimentation: You apply your idea/s to the world around you to see what takes place as a result of your action [1].

So in a nutshell, effective learning can be described as progressing through a 4-stage cycle:
(Number 1): Having a tangible experience followed by
(Number 2): Observing and reflecting on that experience, which gives rise to (Number 3): Analysing, namely, forming abstract concepts and generalizations (conclusions) that you
(Number 4): Employ to conduct a hypothesis in upcoming scenarios, thus culminating in new experiences.