Experiential Learning

I learned about experiential learning while researching one of my goals in my mission statement. One of my teaching principles is that children must be in an environment where they feel safe, happy, and respected. Teachers must establish the conditions within the classroom so that the students can feel a sense of inner security and contentment before any learning can exist. I needed to find a theory of learning that supported my principle of teaching. Carl Rogers (1969) is one of the founders of experiential learning. Experiential learning addresses the needs and wants of the learner. The qualities of this approach include: personal involvement, self-initiated, learner-evaluated, and extensive effects on the learner. Rogers believes that all people have a natural ability to learn and the role of teachers is to facilitate the learning. According to Rogers, learning can be facilitated when:" 1. the student participates completely in the learning process and has control over its nature and direction, 2. it is primarily based upon direct confrontation with practical, social, personal, or research problems, and 3. self-evaluation is the principal method of assessing progress or success."
The role of teachers in experiential learning is to establish a positive learning environment. They clearly explain the purpose of the learning. They utilize all resources that are available. They balance the intellectual and emotional elements of learning. They openly share their feelings and thoughts with their learners. Why should someone engage in experiential learning in their classrooms? Significant learning takes place when the subject is pertinent to the interests of the student. Learning which is threatening to the self are more integrated when external threats are at a minimum. Learning progresses at a rapid rate when the risk to the individual is limited. Learning that was initiated by the individual is longer lasting and more meaningful.


Rogers, C.R. ( 1969). Freedom to learn. Columbus, OH: Merrill.