Laura Luce, Training Specialist, with the AASIS Service Center of the State of Arkansas explores how to use the Experiential Learning Cycle as a major content topic while overlaying it in the training design.  She will discuss the design, implementation, and evaluation of the first Youth Development technical training provided for Peace Corps Honduras. 

 

What are Experiential Learning Cycles?

Experiential Learning Cycles are models for understanding how the process of learning works.  They are distinct from other models of learning, such as behavioral models or social learning models, in two notable ways:

• Experiential Learning Cycles treat the learner's subjective experience as of critical importance in the learning process.  ELCs draw on experiential education principles, which are largely based on the educational philosophy of John Dewey (1920's-1950's).

• Experiential Learning Cycles propose an iterative series of processes which underlies learning.  Depending on the model, there is anywhere between one stage (experience alone) through to six stages of learning to be considered.

Experiential Learning Cycles are commonly used to help structure experience-based training and education programs.  For example, Experiential Learning Cycle models are amongst the most important pieces of theory used in many outdoor education programs.