Reflective observation

Reflective observation takes what has been learned and watches to see if it works. Adults who use reflective observation, generally sit back and watch before making a judgment by viewing the environment from different perspectives. They also look for the meaning of thing. Learners who use this style spend much time viewing information from various angles. They spend time reviewing material and tries to find meaning in everything. 

Reflective Observation Example

Abstract conceptualization

Abstract conceptualization is looking at things as concepts or ideas, with logical analysis of those ideas and acting on the rational understanding of a situation.Many learners who utilize this learning style, prefer diagrams, outlines, and pictures to define or explain a concept. There is little feeling in this style compared to the concrete experience. Learners use analysis, planning, developing and theories as part of this style.

Teach with the brain in mind

To ‘teach with the brain in mind’ means to teach to the whole student, meeting all of their learning needs. Adults, just like children pull from various experiences, references, and their environment when learning. Brain-based learning incorporates such things as experiences, learning styles, cooperation, and simulations just to name a few. It is ensuring that your students, whether in a face-to-face or distance environment, feel like they are having all of their needs met.

http://changingminds.org/explanations/learning/kolb_learning.htm

Be aware teachers...online learners are out there!

Teachers and designers of online learning need to be aware of the various ways adults gather and process information and experiences. Merriam (2001) states that "learning can take place in many settings." Providing communities of practice for adult learners to connect and share their learning experiences will allow for the use of the whole-brain. Incorporating activities from each of the learning styles will also further encourage and motivate adult learners to share their ideas and experiences and respond to others in the class. The links under More Resources provide more in-depth information around activities that can be used in face-to-face classrooms as well as in a distance learning environment. It really is about having some creativity and putting a little effort into creating an interactive and engaging distance learning opportunity for all of the students in the class. 

More Resources

Implementing Kolb’s Learning Styles into Online Distance Education

Designing ODL for Cognitive Syles

Principles of Instructional Technology

Teaching Tips

Principles of Adult Learning

Theories of Learning in Educational Psychology

Merriam, Sharan. B. (2001). The new update on adult learning theory. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass. 

Active experimentation

Active experimentation takes what has been learned and tries it out – proving that it works. It is the ability to get things done by influencing people and events through action and generally includes risk-taking. Active experimentation is much like self-directed learning in that learning takes place by doing something, with something, then adapting it as necessary to meet their needs.

In Kolb's learning styles model, active experimentation is on the far left side of the processing continuum. The other end of the continuum is reflective observation. Rating oneself closer to the left of this continuum means that you want to take an active role in your learning. You appreciate the hands-on approach and look for ways to get involved.


Check out these websites around active experimental learning:
http://effective.leadershipdevelopment.edu.au/series/experiential-learning-models/

http://www.ineedce.com/userfiles/4/pdf/CEStrategiesPpt.pdf

Concrete experience

Concrete experience as it related to adult learning is looking at things as they are, in their true form. Those who use concrete experiences learn from specific experiences and relate to people. Adult learners bring many concrete learning experiences to the classroom (online or face-to-face). It is with these experiences that they can connect new ideas and concepts to past learning. This proves to increase engagement and active participation in the classroom. They are also sensitive to others' feelings.

Experiential Learning Definition

Kolb's Learning Styles

Kolb's Learning Styles

Kolb's learning styles are based on two dimensions, perception and processing.

Concrete experience and abstract conceptualization are on the perception dimension while active experimentation and reflective observation are on the processing dimension. Where these intersect, learning styles are created. They are: accomodators, divergers, convergers, and assimilators. 

It is best to understand Kolb's model of learning styles to effectively create learning opportunities for adults and children alike. Keep in mind that while this model works for children, adults are more likely to fall into a definite learning style based on how they rate themselves on each dimension. 

Keep reading to get a better understanding of the four preference dimensions.

http://changingminds.org/explanations/learning/kolb_learning.htm

Take the Kolb's Learning Style Inventory here!