Kolb vs. Schön

Attribute	Kolb	Schön
Learning Style	Experiential learning	Reflective practice
Model	Experiential Learning Cycle	Reflective Practice Model
Focus	Learning process	Professional practice
Application	Education and training	Professional development

Introduction

Learning theories play a crucial role in understanding how individuals acquire knowledge and skills. Two prominent figures in the field of experiential learning are David Kolb and Donald Schön. While both theorists focus on the importance of experience in the learning process, they have distinct perspectives on how learning occurs and how it can be facilitated. In this article, we will compare and contrast the attributes of Kolb and Schön's theories to gain a deeper understanding of their contributions to the field of education.

Background

David Kolb is best known for his experiential learning theory, which posits that learning is a continuous process that involves four stages: concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. Kolb believes that individuals learn best when they are actively engaged in the learning process and can reflect on their experiences to gain new insights. On the other hand, Donald Schön is known for his work on reflective practice, which emphasizes the importance of reflection in professional learning. Schön argues that professionals must engage in reflective conversations to make sense of complex situations and improve their practice.

Key Concepts

One key concept in Kolb's theory is the idea of learning styles, which are based on how individuals prefer to approach learning tasks. Kolb identifies four learning styles: diverging, assimilating, converging, and accommodating. Diverging learners prefer to observe and reflect, while assimilating learners prefer to think and analyze. Converging learners prefer to do and experiment, while accommodating learners prefer to feel and act. These learning styles influence how individuals engage with the learning process and can impact their learning outcomes.

On the other hand, Schön's key concept is the notion of reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action. Reflection-in-action refers to the process of thinking on one's feet and making decisions in real-time, while reflection-on-action involves looking back on past experiences and learning from them. Schön argues that professionals must engage in both types of reflection to improve their practice and develop their expertise. By reflecting on their actions and decisions, professionals can gain new insights and refine their skills.

Application to Practice

Kolb's theory has been widely used in educational settings to design experiential learning activities that cater to different learning styles. Educators can use Kolb's model to create learning experiences that engage students in all four stages of the learning process, from experiencing new concepts to reflecting on their understanding and applying their knowledge in new contexts. By incorporating active experimentation and reflection into their teaching practices, educators can help students develop a deeper understanding of the material and improve their critical thinking skills.

Similarly, Schön's theory has been applied in professional development programs to help practitioners improve their reflective practice. By engaging in reflective conversations with colleagues and mentors, professionals can gain new perspectives on their work and identify areas for growth. Schön's emphasis on reflection-in-action can help professionals make better decisions in high-pressure situations, while reflection-on-action can help them learn from past experiences and avoid repeating mistakes. By integrating reflective practice into their daily routines, professionals can enhance their learning and improve their performance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, David Kolb and Donald Schön offer valuable insights into the process of learning and professional development. While Kolb's experiential learning theory focuses on the importance of active engagement and reflection in the learning process, Schön's reflective practice theory emphasizes the role of reflection in professional learning. By understanding the key concepts and applications of both theories, educators and professionals can enhance their practice and improve their learning outcomes. By incorporating elements of both Kolb and Schön's theories into their work, individuals can develop a holistic approach to learning and growth.