Experiential Learning: A Practical Guide for Training, Coaching and Education

In a fast-paced and innovative world, traditional training methods can no longer be relied on to improve performance, engagement or promote behavioural change. Experience-based learning, in which the experience is central to the learning process, is more affordable, appealing and effective than ever before.

Experiential Learning combines in-depth theory with international case studies from companies including KidZania, Shell and the UK National Health Service (NHS) and numerous practical tools for developing and delivering learning experiences in both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. It presents a simple model, the Learning Combination Lock, which enables trainers, coaches, facilitators and educators to select the best strategies for their circumstances to maximize comprehension, knowledge retention and application. Essential reading for anyone designing and delivering learning experiences, it covers areas such as experiential learning activities, indoor and outdoor learning environments, creative learning, working with the senses and emotions to help promote learning, and reviewing and evaluating initiatives.

In addition to featuring new international case studies and examples, this updated fourth edition of Experiential Learning contains new material on the mechanisms underpinning learning, mindfulness and wellbeing, experience and language and digital games and the design of multi-sensory experiences. Online supporting resources consist of audio files exploring sensory intelligence.

Colin Beard is recognized as a leading writer, thinker and practitioner on experiential learning. Originally training as a zoologist, Colin has a PhD in experiential learning and has extensive experience of a range of experiential fields of practice, including corporate learning and development, public and voluntary sector experience, outdoor learning, adventure education, nature therapy, and higher education.

Colin has for many years worked with leading global companies advising and consulting on learning and development matters, particularly in the UK, Singapore, China and India. He is also a National teaching Fellow in the UK and a visiting professor at Derby University. He is a member of the editorial panel of a number of leading journals.

He is the co-author and author of a number of best-selling books including Experiential Learning and The Experiential Learning Toolkit, both published by Kogan Page.

John P Wilson teaches at Sheffield University Management School and is a tutor at the University of Oxford. His experience in education and consultancy spans a variety of countries and sectors, including aerospace engineering, banking, law and pharmaceuticals and he has worked with the United Nations Development Programme in Ethiopia and Nigeria.

He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). He has written and edited a number of articles and books, including Experiential Learning, International Human Resource Development and The Call Centre Training Handbook, published by Kogan Page.