The Contribution of Experiential Learning to Self-Directed Learning Approaches in Higher Education

Abstract

There have been trends in experiential learning (EL) to implement self-directed learning (SDL) in higher education institutions in the 21st century. Due to the necessity of a real-life, interactive environment in the lecturing approaches in higher education, the problem is to ensure that the learning becomes interactive and meaningful to the students. Students commit to learning when their goals and objectives are considered realistic and important, though they may face socio-economic challenges. Therefore, applying knowledge in the real world is important and relevant to the student's needs. This chapter explores the implications of experiential learning theory to gain work-related skills and knowledge for the work environment. The implication of the experiential learning theory (ELT) to higher education is that lecturers should design course materials that empower students to acquire knowledge and skills to solve real-life problems. Thus, ELT points to teaching practices that aim at enabling students to perform activities that are close to those found in the workplace.