Learn by Doing—and Reflecting
David Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle shows that adults learn best through experience. The model includes four stages: doing, reflecting, thinking, and applying. It’s a dynamic, hands-on approach that turns real-world experience into lasting knowledge.
Key Concepts
- Concrete Experience
- Reflective Observation
- Abstract Conceptualization
- Active Experimentation
Why it Matters
It’s ideal for adult learners who thrive on relevance, application, and reflection—especially in workplace and professional development settings.
How to Use It
- Build learning around real-life tasks.
- Include time for reflection and feedback.
- Encourage experimentation and iteration.