Experiential learning
Beginning in the 1970s, David A. Kolb helped develop the modern theory of experiential learning, drawing heavily on the work of John Dewey, Kurt Lewin, and Jean Piaget.
Peter Senge, author of The Fifth Discipline (1990), states that teaching is of utmost importance to motivate people.
[15] This experience forms "the basis for observation and reflection" and the learner has the opportunity to consider what is working or failing (reflective observation), formulate a generalized theory or idea about riding a bike in general (abstract conceptualization) and to think about ways to improve on the next attempt made at riding (active experimentation).
Every new attempt to ride is informed by a cyclical pattern of previous experience, thought and reflection.
However, though the gaining of knowledge is an inherent process that occurs naturally, a genuine learning experience requires certain elements.
[18] Kolb's cycle of experiential learning can be used as a framework for considering the different stages involved.
Rather, what is vital in experiential learning is that the individual is encouraged to directly involve themselves in the experience, and then to reflect on their experiences using analytic skills, in order that they gain a better understanding of the new knowledge and retain the information for a longer time.
[23] Although the questions are simple, they allow a relatively inexperienced facilitator to apply the theories of Kolb, Pfeiffer, and Jones, and deepen the learning of the group.
As higher education continues to adapt to new expectations from students, experiential learning in business and accounting programs has become more important.
For example, Clark & White (2010) point out that "a quality university business education program must include an experiential learning component".
[34] With reference to this study, employers note that graduating students need to build skills in "professionalism" – which can be taught via experiential learning.
[35] Robert Loo (2002) undertook a meta-analysis of 8 studies which revealed that Kolb's learning styles were not equally distributed among business majors in the sample.
Interactive, role-play based customer service training is often used in large retail chains.
[39][40][41] This may include for example, learning gained from a network of business leaders sharing best practice, or individuals being mentored or coached by a person who has faced similar challenges and issues, or simply listening to an expert or thought leader in current business thinking.
Providers of this type of experiential business learning often include membership organisations who offer product offerings such as peer group learning, professional business networking, expert/speaker sessions, mentoring and/or coaching.
