EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING METHOD

The key principles of experiential learning:
1. Active participation (experience) – collaborative projects, case – studies or real-world problem-solving. Example: Teamwork in Sustainable Business Model Creation
2. Reflection – analyze their experiences, considering what went well, what didn’t, and how they can improve in the future. Techniques: Group discussions, or guided reflection prompts.
3. Application – applying learned concepts to new situations. E.g. Use the Sustainable Business Model for their own business.

Needed resources:
1. Access to real-world projects – plenty of sources online,
2. Materials for work and simulations – flipcharts, markers, post-it notes, other objects/products etc. Example: Sales game simulation with real products to be sold in the simulation.
3. Partnerships with organizations for internships.
4. Skills in facilitation, guiding discussions, and encouraging reflection.

Target groups:
Learners of different ages and ethnicities, with different level of knowledge on a topic, since the method is very flexible and easy to adapt in any group of trainees.

Benefits and Outcomes:
1. Increased engagement of participants in trainings.
2. Development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
3. Gained soft skills – communication, teamwork, and adaptability.

This method can be used to train learners in any topic, since its principles can be applied to different needs of different fields and sectors.

Without guided reflection, learners may struggle to connect experiences with academic content, diminishing the learning impact.
Therefore, educators should incorporate intentional reflection practices into their programs.

Contact Person: Prof. Tamara Jovanov Apasieva, PhD

Email: [email protected]

Websites:

TEDxBratislava – Gever TULLEY – Secrets of engagement-based learning

TEDxAshokaU – Fernando Padilla – Experiential Learning Helps Both Students & Local Businesses

The Power of Experiential Education | Brianna Roberts | TEDxAlbanianCollegeTirana