Experiential Learning

“Learning is the process whereby knowledge is created through the transformation of experience.”

– David Kolb

David Kolb's Experiential Learning Cycle identifies a four-stage cycle of learning: Concrete Experience, Reflective Observation, Abstract Conceptualization, and Active Experimentation. Learning begins and ends with experiences, which serve as the impetus for meaningful reflections on and connections to our world. Experiential learning encourages the connection of theoretical knowledge with real-life.

Recommendation

Experiential Learning need not be limited to senior projects, internships, or study abroad. Course assignments may be scoped small or large, from a simulated short assignment to one involving multiple disciplines, courses, community partners, or all of the above. These assignments are creative, memorable, and effective methods to transfer and measure learning.

Resources

• What is Experiential Learning? - Institute for Experiential Learning
   
• Kolb, D. A. (1984). Experiential learning: Experience as the source of learning and development (Vol. 1). Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall.
   
• Hertz, Garnet. Two Terms: Critical Making + DIY

Baylor Tools

• Meet our Experiential Learning Commons team in Moody Library to get help incorporating a Digital Media or Making assignment.

• Make a Creative Project Request with the Experiential Learning Commons Team