Circular Learning Model

From Competendo - Digital Toolbox
Revision as of 10:38, 24 February 2021 by Nils.zimmermann (talk | contribs)
Jump to: navigation, search
People learn through a circular process of action, conceptualization and evaluation. It involves referring to previous experiences as well as anticipating outcomes. Learning is in that sense a spiral– reflecting, moving on, turning into a new loop with new experiences and qualitatively new challenges.

Based on the observation that people do not learn like computers, whose progress can be shown as a linear progression, David and Alice Kolb state that a learner has to move through several phases. Applying this curricular model we propose specific definitions for these phases. [1]

Learning-cycle.png
Concrete Experience1. In the beginning in a phase of concrete experience the challenge will be defined.
Reflective Observation 2. Reflective observation does help to identify if the implemented action lead to success or not.
Abstract Conceptualization From observation and evaluation we generate models of the reality that allow us to define some rules.
Active experimentation Action, involvement, trial and error help us to apply these new models and to prove them in new experimentation.
... And again we start to enter a new circle with new concrete experience.

Learning to Learn

Therefore learning is a circular activity that challenges us in defining the competencies we need to gain most from these often implicit learning processes. Therefore successful learning from a lofe-long perspective is depending from for the individual appropriate learning-to-learn strategies unless most situations are complex, unique and not to be managed with recipes from schoolbooks or though formal advice. We need to strengthen our and our participants' reflective skills and our capacities to act autonomously. [2]

References

  1. Kolb, Alice Y.; Kolb David (2005): Learning Styles and Learning Spaces: Enhancing Experiential Learning in Higher Education; in: Academy of Management Learning & Education; Vol. 4, No. 2 (Jun., 2005); pp. 193-212
  2. N. Zimmermann: /Mentoring Handbook - Providing Systemic Support for Mentees and Their Projects; Berlin 2012; MitOst; ISBN 978-3-944012-00-1