Definitions

Before discussing the topic on hand, it is important in any paper that the readers understand exactly what the writer is talking about so that there are no miscommunications. I have slightly redefined both “traditional learning” and “experiential learning” to describe and showcase my interpretation of these different methods of learning, while also taking into account how Dewie and Kolb viewed these definitions.

Traditional learning – Is the method of instruction that is used in a majority of schools in Western culture. The methods revolve around the idea of sitting, reading, and listening to an instructor. The end goal in traditional learning is to finish with the ability to preform a task in the same manner as the instructor has taught. Traditional learning does not allow or leave room for “thinking outside the box”, critical thinking or creativity.

Experiential learning – Described as learning through trying new things and taking away knowledge through experiences, both positive and negative. Experiential learning in this definition is education without specific guidelines, instruction, or expectations of what is expected to be taken away from the experience. There is a much heavier reliance on self-discovery from individual and group experiences, and no reliance on a guiding force to help, teach or assist us through an experience. While experiences still occur in “traditional learning”, these experiences are guided by instruction. Because of this, our experiences can be said to not have occurred naturally and we can become used to being guided into situations in the future; therefore not fully being an authentic experiential learning experience.