Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle (Term Paper Sample)

Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle By (Name) Course Tutor Institution Date Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle Kolb’s experiential learning cycle, otherwise known as the reflecting model, stresses the role of experiences in new knowledge creation. According to the model, learning occurs through four distinct steps, starting with concrete experiences or learning when new experiences occur and are systematically reviewed, analysed, and assessed through the remaining three steps. Reflective observation is the next step, in which the learners reflect on the meaning of the new experiences. The third step of abstract conceptualization is where the learner’s thinking and ideas are based on the new experience. Lastly, active experimentation involves applying new ways of thinking to real-world situations. As such, the complete cycle summarizes the learning process, and when the four stages are completed, a new cycle begins. Unlike traditional learning styles and pedagogy, Kolb’s theory puts the learner’s growth and perception at the centre of the learning process. In this case, the learners control the process, guiding themselves through experience, reflection, and experimentation. According to the video, this learning style is effective because the learner can obtain practical knowledge after applying it to real-world situations (Growth Engineering, 2024). It encourages creativity, cooperation, critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills. Kolb’s experimental learning cycle challenges learners to improve their learning through reflective writing, where they acquire critical thinking skills. Perhaps what stands out most about the cycle is how it helps learners to adopt self-directed learning, unlike other models that focus on learning materials or mediums. Such skills are critical for long-term personal development and learning. Despite the wide acceptance and success of Kolb’s learning cycle, it has been criticized by some scholars, just like any other theoretical model. Some critics argue that the experiential learning cycle cannot be replicated to produce new knowledge about the world (Morris, 2019). While Kolb’s experiments with Piaget, Lewin, and Dewey successfully demonstrated the success of the theory, some scholars argue that the processes were biases and selective and, therefore, cannot be used as a s representation of a whole. It is also argued that the model does not consider the limitations of empirical reasoning, primarily when founded on actions. For instance, action-based empirical reasoning may result in flawed conclusions besides encouraging rigid thinking. Furthermore, the learner is left to understand the meaning of new experiences or knowledge since the model does not explain such changes in experiences and...