A Symbolic Model of the Simultaneous Achievement of Concrete Benefits and Learning by Participating Groups in Experiential Activities: The Sphere of Experiential Learning

Abstract

Commencing with the premise that identifying the learning outcomes of experiential activities presents difficulties to both academics and trainers, the paper explores the nature and culture under which experiential activities are undertaken. It identifies, advances the theory and develops a symbolic model of social learning for participating groups in experiential activities. Further reflection leads the authors to identify three basic components which they believe to be at the core of all experiential activities and which enables the symbolic model, previously mentioned, to function.