Experiential learning helps individuals to generate understanding and transfer knowledge in a manner different from the traditional didactic method of teaching where teachers simply transfer knowledge upon their students. Experiential learning allows students to engage their own experiences and reflect upon those experiences to further synthesize and analyze information. Such skills are integral for problem based learning and engaging twenty-first century skills.

In a ‘learning by doing’ atmosphere individuals can strengthen their skills in a meaningful way that helps to promote life-long learners. Experiential learning can take on different forms, as a solo activity or as a collaborative effort. In a collaborative environment team members not only learn more about... (more)

Experiential learning helps individuals to generate understanding and transfer knowledge in a manner different from the traditional didactic method of teaching where teachers simply transfer knowledge upon their students. Experiential learning allows students to engage their own experiences and reflect upon those experiences to further synthesize and analyze information. Such skills are integral for problem based learning and engaging twenty-first century skills.

In a ‘learning by doing’ atmosphere individuals can strengthen their skills in a meaningful way that helps to promote life-long learners. Experiential learning can take on different forms, as a solo activity or as a collaborative effort. In a collaborative environment team members not only learn more about themselves and their communication skills, but those of others as well. As individual’s strengths, weaknesses, and attitudes become apparent, they can be addressed and acknowledged, thereby creating a stronger sense of community. Experiential learning may begin with a set objective or goal that the learner wishes to accomplish, or tasks can be developed as the project progresses to accommodate the learners involved. Either form allows participants to take on new roles, discover new sources of information, and develop skills they may not have realized they possessed.

Whether informal learning takes place in or out of the classroom the benefits are many. Providing a safe environment for learners to take risks without constant fear of failure helps to emphasize the value of working for the common good of people. Such an environment encourages learners to take an active role regarding issues that effect their life and motivate others around them to do the same. In a positive collaborative effort individuals foster a sense of equality while at the same time promoting the appreciation of one another’s diversity.

“Tell me, and I will forget. Show me, and I may remember. Involve me, and I will understand” – Confucius, circa 450 BC (wiki)