Experiential Learning involves the progressive sequence .... activity .... learning .... implementation .... learning .... implementation ... but all too often the activity is the focus, not the learning or the implementation.

Our aim is to improve performance through learning, so we encourage people to work systematically through the process shown below.

MTa_learning_arena

 

The Learning Arenaâ„¢

 

Description Definition Role of the facilitator

1. Activity or Learning Platform

 

Activity provides experiences upon which participants can reflect and build. These experiences become the platform for learning.

 

To provide an appropriate task for the participants, brief and fulfil any prescribed supporting role.

 

 

 

2. Gateway to Learning


A virtual gateway which every individual must pass through to enter the Learning Arenaâ„¢. There are two criteria individuals must meet to pass through this gateway, they must want to learn, and they must want to understand how to make the most of the learning opportunities.

 

To shift participants' focus from tackling a task to seeing it as a platform for learning.

 

 

 

3. Individual and Group Reviews

 

The first step is analysing the activity. The purpose is for everyone to identify and understand the key aspects of the activity and their role within it.

 

To stimulate thought and guide thinking into areas that will provide significant and appropriate learning.

 

 

 

4. Identify the positives

 

Spending time analysing and understand what went well and why helps build participants’ self confidence and self esteem.

 

Ensure individuals spend time identifying and valuing the positives aspects of the way they tackled the task and understanding why and how they happened

 

5. Build on the positives

 

Building on the positives is about finding ways consider how greater value can be gained from existing skills, abilities and attitudes.

Ensure individuals consider how the positive elements can be put to greater use either as they are or with some adaptations.

6. Develop Ideas to overcome / improve upon the negatives

 

This process is problem solving in action, but care needs to be taken as swamping people with ‘bad news’ before seeking any positive outcomes can be de-motivating.

 

Ensure individuals think through the 'okay' as well as the negative aspects in a constructive way, turning them into opportunities for improvement which people can both relate to and commit to tackling. It may be necessary to help generate priorities.

7. Evaluate and select ideas to be tested / implemented

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Evaluating all ideas before any selection or rejection takes place can make the selection process easier, more rational and generate commitment to planned implementation and further refinement

 

Ensure individuals follow all of the steps, taking time and working things through for themselves: this is the best way to to develop real understanding and commitment for change and implementation.

8. Implement learning in new activity

 

 

 

Chosen ideas can be either tested in a 'safe' learning environment or implemented in a 'real' situation.

 

Consider whether or not individuals need more opportunities to develop understanding or skills in a training environment before using them 'for real'. Either provide a new learning activity or support for learning transfer.

9. Gateway to more learning

 

Testing and implementing create new learning platforms and opportunities to enter new Learning Arenas.

 

Ensure that individuals understand the importance of reviewing their progress as they implement their learning. This may involve providing additional support; themselves, through their line manager, via documentation and diarised review processes.

Training Accessories: