C. Rogers focuses on the idea of
experiential learning. His ideas about learning come from the ideas of psychotherapy
and different areas in psychology. Compared to other learning theories, Rogers
is particularly focused on adult learners. According to Rogers, experiential learning focuses on the
desired needs and wants of the learner. Rogers initiates four main
qualities of experiential learning. These qualities include personal
involvement, self-initiated, evaluated by learner and pervasive effects on the
learner (Rogers, 1969). He believes that main purpose of experiential learning
is to propose the idea of the individual's personal improvement and growth
(Rogers, 1969). He believes that all humans have an instinct to learn and
improve their knowledge. In these circumstances, the teacher is the person who
controls the learning environment.
He believes that there are certain
times when learning is to take place. There are many situations when the
teacher can provide a positive learning opportunity, Rogers focuses on six
examples. The first example includes the teacher providing a positive learning
environment. Second, the teacher clarifies the purpose to the student. Third,
the teacher organizes and provides necessary learning resources to the students. Fourth, the teacher is
able to balance intellectual and emotional components of learning. Finally, the
teacher shares thoughts and feelings with the students, but is not too dominant
(Rogers, 1969).
There are four main principles to
his theory. They are as follows: “learning proceeds faster when the threat to
the self is low, self-initiated learning is the most lasting and pervasive,
learning which is threatening to the self are more easily assimilated when external
threats are at a minimum an significant learning takes place when the subject
matter is relevant to the personal interests of the student” (Rogers, 1969).
These concepts could be utilized on
internet-based applications. The Internet allows for more in depth discussions
because there is not necessarily an end time like there would be in a classroom.
This also provides the opportunity for a positive learning environment, which
is self-initiated. The self-initiated aspect is a vital component when
discussing online courses or assignments. His theory could be applied to adult
students who are taking much of their course load online. The major emphasis would be on a
personal interest in the subject matter and self-initiation.
David,
ReplyDeleteRogers' Theory of Experiential Learning is of interest in its application to adult learners. The teacher is more of a facilitator than an authority figure, and is sensitive to the needs, feelings, and motivations of the learner. Learners learn better when they are highly motivated, often toward a specific goal. I think it is a practical theory for our times, when adult learners often retrain for new jobs or must adapt to learn new skills quickly.
Electronic portfolios and on-line collaborative environments are authentic applications of this theory. Virtual environments, augmented reality, and simulations can give students the experience they need to facilitate learning. This theory emphasizes a "show me" rather than "tell me" approach that results in lasting learning.