This course introduces the concept, meaning, and applications of Experiential Learning as an effective pedagogical approach to enhance social, emotional, and cognitive competencies in learners. The course explores Indian and Western perspectives on experiential learning, provides insights into competency-based education, and guides learners to apply experiential learning strategies in real-life educational and community contexts.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the concept and meaning of experiential learning.

• Compare Indian and Western educational thinkers’ perspectives on experiential learning.

• Develop strategies for competency building in educational practice.

• Design and reflect on experiential learning activities for skill and social development.

Course Layout 

The course can be divided into 4 Modules, each containing chapters, activities, and assessments.

Module 1: Concept and Meaning of Experiential Learning

• Chapter 1.1: Introduction to Experiential Learning

  • Definition and scope

  • Importance in 21st-century education

• Chapter 1.2: Principles of Experiential Learning

  • Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle

  • Application in classroom and community

• Activities:

  • Reflective journal on a personal experiential learning moment

  • Short quiz on key concepts

Module 2: Indian Thinkers’ Views on Experiential Learning

• Chapter 2.1: Mahatma Gandhi – Nai Talim (Learning by Doing)

• Chapter 2.2: Rabindranath Tagore – Learning in Harmony with Nature

• Chapter 2.3: Sri Aurobindo – Integral and Experiential Education

• Activities:

  • Discussion forum: “How Indian philosophy shapes experiential learning today”

  • Assignment: Comparative reflection on any two Indian thinkers

Module 3: Western Views on Experiential Learning

• Chapter 3.1: John Dewey – Learning through Experience and Reflection

• Chapter 3.2: David Kolb – Experiential Learning Theory

• Chapter 3.3: Kurt Lewin & Jean Piaget – Social and Cognitive Dimensions

• Activities:

  • Case study: Applying Kolb’s cycle to a classroom activity

  • Interactive quiz on Western theories

Module 4: Experiential Learning for Competency Building

• Chapter 4.1: Understanding Competency and Skill Development

• Chapter 4.2: Linking Experiential Learning with Social, Emotional, and Cognitive Competencies

• Chapter 4.3: Designing Experiential Learning Activities for Competency Building

• Activities:

  • Group project: Design an experiential learning activity for community service

  • Self-assessment: Map personal competencies developed during the course

Assessment Plan

• Quizzes (20%) – After Modules 1 and 3

• Assignments (30%) – Reflective writing and comparative analysis

• Project Work (30%) – Design and present an experiential learning activity

• Participation (20%) – Forum discussions and activity reflections