David A Kolbs learning cycle

Summary

David Kolb's experiential learning model, introduced in 1984, offers insight into individual learning styles through a cycle of four elements: concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. The model identifies four learning styles—diverger, assimilator, converger, and accommodator—each suited to different teaching methods and tasks. It supports lifelong learning and helps leaders understand employee preferences, facilitating tailored learning experiences.

Takeaways

• 📚 David Kolb is an American emeritus professor of organizational behavior and a learning specialist.
• 🌀 Kolb developed the Experiential Learning Model, also known as Kolb's Learning Cycle, which was published in his 1984 book 'Experiential Learning'.
• 🔄 The model provides insight into how individuals learn, emphasizing the importance of understanding learning styles for effective coaching and mentoring.
• 🧠 The learning style preference is derived from two pairs of variables, each forming an axis with conflicting modes: the Processing Continuum (active vs. passive) and the Perception Continuum (abstract vs. concrete).
• 🔄 The model consists of two dimensions: four elements of learning (Concrete Experience, Reflective Observation, Abstract Conceptualization, Active Experimentation) and four learning styles (Diverger, Assimilator, Converger, Accommodator).
• 🎓 Concrete Experience involves being involved in specific experiences and relating to people.
• 🔍 Reflective Observation is about observing others or one's own experiences before making judgments.
• 🧩 Abstract Conceptualization involves creating theories or concepts to explain observations through logical analysis.
• ⚙️ Active Experimentation is about applying new theories or concepts to solve problems and make decisions.
• 🔄 The four learning styles (Diverger, Assimilator, Converger, Accommodator) are combinations of the elements of learning, each suited to different instructional methods and tasks.
• 👥 Divergers are motivated by discovering the relevance or 'why' of situations, using a feeling and watching approach.
• 🔬 Assimilators focus on understanding 'what is there to know', preferring structured, detailed information delivered by experts.
• 💡 Convergers are motivated by discovering the 'how' of situations, preferring practical applications and problem-solving activities.
• 🚀 Accommodators are motivated by experimenting and 'what if' questions, thriving on active participation and independent discovery.
• 🏢 Understanding these learning styles can help leaders tailor their approach to facilitate learning and development within their organizations.
• 🔄 Practical examples include using different employee learning styles to order and install new machines or to learn a new management skill like coaching.
• 📉 Criticisms of Kolb's model include its focus on the cognitive dimension and lack of guidance on when to shift between learning styles.

Q & A

Who is David Kolb and what is his contribution to the field of learning?

David Kolb is an American emeritus professor of organizational behavior and a learning specialist. He is known for developing the experiential learning model, also known as Kolb's Learning Cycle, which was first published in his 1984 book 'Experiential Learning'.

What is the purpose of Kolb's Learning Cycle model?

The purpose of Kolb's Learning Cycle model is to provide insight into how individuals learn from their experiences. It helps in understanding different learning styles, which is crucial for coaching or mentoring others effectively.

What are the two dimensions of Kolb's Learning Cycle model?

The two dimensions of Kolb's Learning Cycle model are the four elements of learning and the four learning styles. The four elements are concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. The four learning styles are diverger, assimilator, converger, and accommodator.

How does the processing continuum axis in Kolb's model differ between the left and right sides?

The processing continuum axis in Kolb's model deals with our approach to a task. On the left side, individuals are active and engaged in doing, while on the right side, individuals are passive and focused on watching.

What does the perception continuum axis represent in Kolb's Learning Cycle model?

The perception continuum axis in Kolb's model represents our emotional responses. At the bottom of the axis, there is an abstract approach where individuals are thinking, while at the top, there is a concrete approach where individuals are feeling.

What is the first element of learning in Kolb's model and what does it involve?

The first element of learning in Kolb's model is concrete experience. It involves being involved in an experience where learners learn from specific experiences and are sensitive to others' feelings.

What are the characteristics of a 'diverger' learning style according to Kolb's model?

A 'diverger' learning style is characterized by a passive and concrete approach. Divergers emphasize an innovative and imaginative approach to tasks, view situations from multiple perspectives, and adapt through observation rather than action.

How does an 'assimilator' learning style differ from a 'diverger' in Kolb's model?

An 'assimilator' learning style is characterized by a passive and abstract approach. Assimilators integrate various observations and thoughts into a cohesive whole, reason inductively, and prefer to create models and theories.

What is the 'converger' learning style and what are its key features?

The 'converger' learning style is a combination of an active and abstract approach. Convergers focus on the practical application of ideas and problem-solving, preferring technical problems over interpersonal issues.

How does the 'accommodator' learning style approach learning tasks?

The 'accommodator' learning style, which combines an active and concrete approach, uses trial and error rather than thought and reflection. Accommodators are good at adapting to changing circumstances and solving problems intuitively.

What criticism has been raised against Kolb's Learning Cycle model?

A criticism of Kolb's Learning Cycle model is that it only works with the cognitive dimension of learning and does not consider the psychodynamic and societal dimensions. Additionally, there is no guidance on when or how to shift between different learning styles.

How can Kolb's model be applied in a practical scenario involving the installation of new machines?

In a practical scenario, Kolb's model can be applied by utilizing different learning styles at various stages of the process. For example, divergers can be used to gather observations and information, assimilators to integrate these into a cohesive plan, convergers to apply the plan and solve problems, and accommodators to adapt and learn through trial and error.

What are the implications of Kolb's model for leaders in understanding their employees' learning preferences?

Kolb's model can help leaders gain a better understanding of their employees' learning preferences, which can facilitate the overall learning process within an organization. By recognizing these preferences, leaders can assign tasks and projects that align with employees' strengths and learning styles.