Blog Post #2: Experiential  Learning 

Experiential  learning emphasizes learning through active engagements rather than passive absorption of information. The Institute for Experiential Learning defines it as a four step cycle of “Experiencing-Reflecting-Thinking-Acting” that supports performance improvement (Experiential  Learning Institute, n.d). This approach resonates strongly with my experience in the Elementary Education program, where students develop deeper understanding when they do things, make sense of them, and reflect on what they have learned. Learners do not do well on memorizing facts alone, their learning does not stay in long term memory. Students thrive when they investigate, explore, and make meaning from their own experiences. 

The JUMP! Foundation further highlights this power of experiential learning by describing it as a “dynamic and transformative approach to education” in which learners “acquire knowledge and skills through hands-on experiences that ignite curiosity and drive personal and professional growth (JUMP! Foundation, n.d). The idea captures what I strive for as an educator, students asking questions, engaging with meaningful tasks, and connecting learning to real world contexts rather than simply responding to worksheets or passive learning. 

In my own practice, I try to design lessons where students are actively interacting with content. For example, instead of telling students about ecosystems, I would have them examine the components of the schoolyard habitat, collect data, and then have them organize their observations to see patterns. 

Technology, when used intentionally, can enhance experiential learning by supporting student learning. This is obviously if the school has computers that students can use. However, if technology is used for students just to view videos or slide shows without any student interaction, students can slip into passive consumption. That would contradict the principles that experiential learning promotes. Some great online tools that activate student learning are the PhET simulators online. They have many different simulations but one great example is the fraction simulator where it provides an Intro, Game, and Lab. It is an awesome resource as students can manipulate fractions with different visuals, practice with a game, then apply their learning in the lab. There are also additional resources for teachers and the whole program is free, which is a plus! 

I appreciate Alexis’s post on inquiry based learning, particularly her focus on student questioning and critical thinking rather than passive information intake. Her emphasis on learner autonomy connects closely with experiential learning as both approaches prioritize active engagement and making meaning. Reading her post helped me see how inquiry learning complements experiential learning by supporting curiosity while experiential learning extends this idea through reflection. 

Overall, experiential learning, when paired thoughtfully with technology, can reflect the kinds of learning environments I want to create. This is where students do, reflect, and connect in ways that make learning real and meaningful. It additionally helps with students’ long term memory of learning and experiences that students will remember in years to come. 

References: 

Experiential Learning Institute. (n.d.). What is experiential learning?
https://experientiallearninginstitute.org/what-is-experiential-learning/ 

JUMP! Foundation. (n.d.). 10 types of experiential learning: Unlocking the power of hands-on education.
https://jumpfoundation.org/10-types-of-experiential-learning-unlocking-the-power-of-hands-on-education/ 

University of Colorado Boulder. (n.d.). PhET interactive simulations.
https://phet.colorado.edu/