KOLB experiential learning cycle as key element in activities with yout
Kolb’s experiential learning cycle(7) defines learning as a 4-step process:
- The experience
- Reflection on the lived experience
- Generalization of the experience
- Application of experience in current activity
The experiential learning cycle builds on the person's previous knowledge, skills and experiences to help him/her learn new things.
While facilitating an activity with youth, the following stages can be applied.
Stage 1:
The cycle begins with involving the participants in a new experience, engaging them in an activity designed to help them discover new information.
Stage 2:
In the second stage of the cycle, the facilitator (trainer / youth worker / educator) asks open questions to help the participants think, to reflect on the lived experience.
Stage 3:
In this stage, the facilitator asks questions to help the participants generalize the experience they had, interpreting the information acquired by the participants and determining what they learned from the lived experience.
Stage 4:
In the final stage, the facilitator asks direct questions about how the participants will apply what they have learned in their professional activity and/or personal life.
The proposed methods that will follow are based on KOLB’s cycle - active experimentation followed by debriefing of the experience. Next, you will find some information related to how to properly conduct a debriefing.
