Experience is the essence of effective learning. It is through active participation, making choices, and facing the consequences that learners truly absorb and apply knowledge. This is where experiential learning comes into play.
Experiential learning encompasses a wide range of activities such as simulations, role plays, storytelling, immersive challenges, and more. It creates contexts that require learners to apply their knowledge, make decisions, and learn from the outcomes. Guided reflection on these experiences helps connect underlying concepts and refine understanding. This approach aligns with the research-backed principles of effective learning.
Sadly, the term “experiential learning” has lost its sway, leading to a lack of awareness about its essential elements. Many settle for superficial approximations of true experiential learning, such as passive video watching or simple click-to-advance interactions. To address this, we need to reestablish a focus on meaningful action, design experiences that facilitate active learning, and foster deep understanding.
In this position paper authored by our Chief Learning Strategist – Clark Quinn, we discuss the different facets of experiential learning and talk about making learning experiences experiential, engaging, and purposeful, even with everyday tools and without the need for expensive technology.
To grab your copy of the position paper, download it here or reach out to us at eLearning@upsidelearning.com to request a copy.
