How can you develop problem-solving skills through experiential learning?

1 What is experiential learning?

Experiential learning is a learning approach that emphasizes active participation, personal relevance, and meaningful feedback. It is based on the idea that direct experience with a topic is more effective than simply reading or listening about it. This approach can take many forms, such as internships, service-learning, project-based learning, simulations, games, and field trips. The key elements of experiential learning are concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. Concrete experience involves engaging in hands-on activities related to learning goals. Reflective observation requires reviewing and analyzing what was done and learned from the experience. Abstract conceptualization involves connecting the experience to existing or new concepts, theories, or frameworks. Finally, active experimentation involves applying what was learned to new situations or problems.

2 How does experiential learning improve problem-solving skills?

Problem-solving skills are the ability to identify, analyze, and solve complex or unfamiliar issues in a systematic and creative way. Experiential learning can help you develop and enhance these skills by providing authentic and relevant problems that require you to apply your knowledge and skills in novel ways. It will also challenge you to think critically and creatively about the causes, effects, and solutions of the problems you encounter, encouraging experimentation with different strategies and methods. Furthermore, feedback and guidance from instructors, mentors, peers, or clients can offer different perspectives and insights on the problems and solutions. Additionally, experiential learning enables collaboration and communication with others who have different backgrounds, skills, and opinions so that you may learn from their experiences and contributions.

3 What are some examples of experiential learning activities that foster problem-solving skills?

Experiential learning activities can help you improve your problem-solving skills, depending on your field of study, interest, and goals. For example, if you are studying engineering, you can participate in a design challenge that requires you to create a prototype meeting certain specifications and constraints. Business students can join a case competition to analyze a real or simulated business scenario and propose an innovative solution. Education students can conduct an action research project to identify a problem in their teaching practice or context and evaluate a solution. Health sciences students can engage in simulations where they respond to medical emergencies and provide appropriate care and treatment. Arts students can create a portfolio showcasing their artistic work and explaining their creative process and choices.

4 How can you make the most of your experiential learning opportunities?

To maximize the benefits of experiential learning for your problem-solving skills, you need to be proactive, reflective, and adaptable. To do so, set clear and realistic learning objectives and expectations before you start an experiential learning activity. During the activity, be open-minded and curious; ask questions, seek feedback, explore different options, and embrace uncertainty and ambiguity. Afterward, reflect on your experience and outcomes; consider what worked and what didn't, and how you can improve your problem-solving skills for the future. Finally, transfer your learning to other contexts and situations; think about how you can apply what you learned to new problems or challenges and share your learning with others.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?