Constructivism Pt.5: Experiential learning theory cont'd

In the years since Kolb first devised the learning styles inventory, the definitions of the four learning styles - Diverging, Assimilating, Converging, and Accommodating – (see Table 1), have been refined through research and clinical observation (2000, p.4) in studies carried out in 1984 and 1999.

Table 1 Kolb's Learning Styles' Characteristics

Learning style	Learning characteristic	Description
Converger	Abstract conceptualization + active experimentation	strong in practical application of ideas
		can focus on hypo-deductive reasoning on specific problems
		unemotional
		has narrow interests
Diverger	Concrete experience +	strong in imaginative ability
	reflective observation	good at generating ideas and seeing things from different perspectives
		interested in people
		broad cultural interests
Assimilator	Abstract conceptualization + reflective observation	strong ability to create theoretical models
		excels in inductive reasoning
		concerned with abstract concepts rather than people
Accommodator	Concrete experience + active experimentation	greatest strength is doing things
		more of a risk-taker
		performs well when required to react to immediate circumstances
		solves problems intuitively

Current developments in ELT have led Kolb and his colleagues at Experience Based Learning Systems, Inc. to designate second- and third-order learning styles (pp.23-24) facilitating the creation of a learning styles matrix, which Kolb et alia believe assists in understanding learning “at a deeper and more comprehensive level than previously, and provides guidance for applications to help people improve their learning, and designing better processes in education and development… in organizations and society” (2000, p.28).

References

Boyatzis, R. E. Kolb, D. A. & Mainemelis, C. (2000) Experiential Learning Theory: Previous Research and New Directions. [Internet] IN: Sternberg, R. J. & Zhang, L. F. (Eds.). Perspectives on cognitive, learning, and thinking styles. NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum, Available from: http://www.learningfromexperience.com/images/uploads/
experiential-learning-theory.pdf [Accessed 23rd October 2006]

Kolb, D. A. (2006) Learning Styles Matrix diagram. [Internet] Available from: http://www.businessballs.com/freepdfmaterials/
kolb_learning_styles_diagram_colour.pdf [Accessed 8th January 2008]