Learner Centred Learning/Adult Learning Theories, Principles and Practices/Kolb’s Learning Cycle

David Kolb’s work developed from the influences of John Dewey, Kurt Lewin and Jean Piaget. Kolb’s Learning Cycle reflects an experiential way of learning identifying 4 main aspects of learning

• • Concrete experience
  • Reflective observation
  • Abstract conceptualisation
  • Active experimentation

These aspects are ordered in a cyclical model to indicate a continuous process. All four aspects are considered necessary for effective learning to occur (Fry, Ketteridge & Marshall, 1999).

Expanding on the original model Kolb worked with D. Wolf to identify 4 learning styles

• Convergent - practical application of ideas
• Divergent - imaginative ability and generation of ideas
• Assimilation - creating theoretical models and making sense of disparate

observations

• Accommodative - Carrying out plans and tasks that involve them in new

experiences

Although learners may have a preference for a particular learning style it was still suggested that all four aspects needed to be incorporated for effective learning (Fry, Ketteridge & Marshall, 1999).

Below are links to a variety of viewpoints and information on Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle.

http://www.businessballs.com/kolblearningstyles.htm

http://www.infed.org/biblio/b-explrn.htm

http://reviewing.co.uk/research/experiential.learning.htm

http://www2.le.ac.uk/offices/careers/pgrd/resources/teaching/theories/kolb