David Kolb studied learning and noticed that everyone in a learning situation goes through a cycle of four phases. However, Kolb also noticed that each individual generally preferred two phases of this cycle.

The cycle of learning phases.

1. Having a concrete experience about an action/idea. (I am painting a kitchen wall.)
2. Observing it in a reflective, thoughtful way. (How does it look? Do I like it?)
3. Thinking about it in an abstract, theoretical way. (Could I have used a better method - paint brush vs. roller?)
4. Experimenting with the idea/action based on the original experience. (I try a different method.)

Where do you fit? Kolb gave names to different types of learners, based on their favourite phases in the learning cycle.

• Diverger:
  Prefers phases: (1) having a concrete experience; and (2) reflecting on that experience. Divergers are imaginative and interested in people and emotions.
  
  
• Assimilator:
  Prefers phases: (2) reflecting on an experience; and (3) thinking about the experience in an abstract, theoretical way. Assimilators like to create theoretical models and tend to be less interested in people and practical applications of knowledge.
  
  
• Converger:
  Prefers phases: (3) thinking about the experience in an abstract, theoretical way; and (4) experimenting with the idea/action. Convergers like to be practical and tend to be unemotional and prefer to deal with things rather than people.
  
  
• Accommodator:
  Prefers phases: (1) having a concrete experience; and (4) experimenting with the idea/action based on that experience. Accommodators are good in adapting to new experiences and tend to be intuitive at solving problems.

Develop your learning strategies.

Training and Careers Features

• Kolb's Learning Strategies
  Do your preferences for certain learning phases mean that you tend to be a diverger, accommodator, assimilator, or converger? Find out what strategies suit you best.

Related Links

• Kolb's Four Dominant Learning Skills: Freemont-Elizabeth High School