UNIT 2 EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

UNIT 2  

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING 

The experiential learning cycle

[1 minute reading]

The experiential learning cycle is a four-step learning process that is applied multiple times in every interaction and experience: Experience – Reflect – Think – Act.

It’s a learning process initiated by a concrete experience, which demands reflection, review and perspective-taking about the experience; then abstract thinking to reach conclusions and conceptualise the meaning of the experience; leading to a decision to act, engaging in active experimentation or applying what you’ve learned.

This cycle is so natural and organic that people engage in it without being aware that they are learning. 

Experiential learning and digital technologies 

Practical learning activities in the forest are based on experiential learning approach. Digital technology can enhance and improve the experience. Let’s make an example. To learn how to correctly cut a tree, in order not to cause any damages and ensure our safety and the safety of others, it is fundamental to take a proper body posture during work and position ourselves in the right place with respect to the tree felling direction. Normally, in traditional courses in the forest, the instructor shows the learners how to correctly perform the procedure. The learner apprehends while analysing the directions of the instructor and repeating the same actions, while the instructor corrects him/her. However, the practical activity actually entails felling a tree so it cannot be repeated many times to internalise the process and adjust the posture and the gestures. A simple, affordable and common digital technology such as the smartphone can be used to record the learner while performing the cut and show her/him the videoclip in order to watch and assess better any mistakes she/he is making.