Using Kolb's Learning Styles to Improve Learning Experience
Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory involves four key learning styles:
| Kolb Learning Style | Kolb Phases | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodating (CE/AE) | Concrete Experience (Feeling) & Active Experimentation (Doing) | Active learners who prefer hands-on experiences and learning by doing. They tend to learn best when they are actively involved in the process. They value personal experiences and focus on their feelings. They enjoy relationships in learning and working with others. |
| Diverging (CE/RO) | Concrete Experience (Feeling) & Reflective Observation (Watching) | Reflective learners who focus on personal experience and value insights gained through observation. These learners gain insights by reflecting on experiences. They tend to be open-minded, imaginative, and interested in exploring different perspectives. |
| Assimilating (AC/RO) | Abstract Conceptualization (Thinking) & Reflective Observation (Watching) | These learners are more theoretical and analytical, preferring to think through concepts and observe before taking action. They prefer a structured and logical approach to problem-solving. They excel in environments that require deep thinking and logical analysis. |
| Converging (AC/AE) | Abstract Conceptualization (Thinking) & Active Experimentation (Doing) | These learners focus on solving problems by applying concepts in real-world situations. They are practical and action-oriented, seeking results and focusing on task-oriented outcomes. Practical learners who focus on finding solutions to problems through experimentation and action. They enjoy applying ideas to practical, real-world situations. |
1. Which of these sounds most like you?
2. Give specific examples of times when you've used each style.
3. What does this tell you about your flexibility?
4. What is a common criticism of Kolb’s learning styles?
5. What do scholars suggest for overcoming this challenge? Include one supporting source
6. What might this mean for you as an educator?
- How will you design instruction to use all learning modes?
- How can you avoid over-relying on your dominant style?
- What’s one thing you’ll do differently in your next lesson?
7. Respond to 2 classmate posts.
📝 Takeaway: Effective instructors can stretch across all phases of the learning cycle and support students in doing the same.
Resources
Cloke, H. (2024, October 17). Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle: A Complete Guide. Growth Engineering. https://www.growthengineering.co.uk/kolb-experiential-learning-theory/.
Research Library | Experience Based Learning Systems, LLC. (n.d.). https://learningfromexperience.com/research-library/the-kolb-learning-style-inventory-4-0/.
Simply Psychology. (2025, March 19). Kolb’s Learning Styles and Experiential Learning cycle. https://www.simplypsychology.org/learning-kolb.html.
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Title: Discussion 1 – Using Kolb’s Learning Styles