The instructional approach to a learning environment that I have selected for discussion here is experiential learning. In its essence, experiential learning is about learning by doing, followed by reflection. The theory of experiential learning draws on the work of several 20th century scholars like John Dewey, Carl Jung, William James and more. They gave experience a central role in their theories about human learning and development. The amalgamation of their work consisted of a set of propositions about learning theory. The first was that a learning outcome is not the endpoint, but simply a resting point of an on-going learning process. The second stated that as new ideas are learned, old ideas can be modified and disposed of. The third stated that effective learners are capable of balancing the opposing modes in the learning cycle. This is a balance between active experimentation and reflective observation, as well as a balance between abstract conceptualization and concrete experience. The fourth stated that learning never truly ends, as it encompasses all stages of life from childhood to old-age. The fifth stated that when learners and the environment interact, both are changed. The sixth and final proposition stated that every field requires unique skills and a special learning process. Educational theorist David Kolb took these foundational theories produced by those 20th century scholars, and brought them together to develop a holistic model of experiential learning theory. He explained that learning is a process in which knowledge is created through the transformation of experience. Experiential learning involves recursive cycles of experience, discussion, feedback, practice and application in real-life contexts. This gives learners a better capacity to apply and connect theoretical knowledge with real-life applications.  

The degree to which experiential learning can apply to my group’s chosen topic is not very clearcut. In one way, it is applicable because learners can be introduced to new knowledge and concepts, be tested on the same and receive feedback on their performance. The learner can then reflect on their performance and feedback and hopefully make improvements in subsequent evaluations. However, since experiential learning emphasizes practical applications, it is not so clear to see how that aspect of it aligns with our topic, since the topic we have chosen is very theoretical, involving the biological aspects of COVID-19.