Online Degrees - Experiential Learning - Cont.

1. The first style is active experimentation. This person expresses rather than thinks, is practical rather than theoretical, and often focuses on his or her involvement in a situation in a personal way. This person does well with simulations, case studies and homework because it allows them to practice and work situations and problems out actively.
2. Concrete Experience. This person is a pragmatist and prefers practical application over reflective understanding, doing over observing. He or she likes to see the results, and to this end, will generally go with what works rather than what is right. They often want to influence others. This person does well with laboratories, field work and observation because it allows them to see hard evidence.
3. Reflective observation. What is going on is more important to this person than practical application. Understanding comes from observation and description. This person does well with logs, journals and brainstorming-more subjective techniques.
4. Abstract conceptualization. Precision, discipline and systematic planning is a priority for this learner. They prefer logic, thinking through things and appreciating theory. This person does well with lectures, papers and analogies, all of which promote linear systems.

Experiential learning is often discussed in conjunction with online degrees simply because learning via the Web or computer often involves action and experience. Experiential learning believes that people learn more from what they do than from what they know. People cannot be told or explained how to do something, but rather, they must be shown. This type of learning must move beyond knowledge and into skill. The environment in which a person is experientially learning is also critical. It must respect the individuals' choices and provide space and time for the learner to reflect and consider options and investigate doubts.

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