Experiencing
The data-generating part of the experience develops a common base for the discussion that follows. Goals include:
• To Explore_
• To Examine_
• To Study_
• To Identify_
Publishing
The question in this stage is _What happened to me?_ Participants share personal data about what they saw and/or how they felt during the experience.
• Feelings
• Reactions
• Observations
Processing
The question here is _What happened in general?_ Participants systematically examine their commonly shared experience.
• Common themes
• Patterns
• Interactions
• Group dynamics
• Behavioral trends
Generalizing
The question now is _So what?_ From the patterns identified, participants abstract:
• Inferences
• Generalizations
• Learnings
• Principles
• What tends to happen_
These are stated in terms of the _real world_ rather than the learning situation.
Applying
The final question is _Now what?_ Generalizations and learnings are applied to real-life situations, and change is planned. This stage can include:
• Consulting groups
• Goal setting
• Practice sessions
• Contracting for change
The application of learning is a new experience. The cycle begins again_
Conclusion
Learning experiences that utilize the experiential learning model allow participants to confront basic psychological and behavioral issues that they have to deal with in their daily lives. The model gives participants an opportunity to examine their feelings and behaviors related to interactions with other individuals. Examining their feelings and other reactions to situations helps to expand the participants' awareness and understanding of the function their emotions play in their behavior. Not only does this add to the interest and involvement of the participants, it also contributes significantly to the transfer of learning. No other type of learning generates this personal involvement and depth of understanding. The ultimate result is that participants accept responsibility for their own learning and behavior, rather than assigning that responsibility to someone else.