Experiential learning means that nobody just sits back and listens or takes notes – all participants learn through felt and shared experience. For example, if we are learning experientially about a particular model of group dynamics, we may encourage participants to describe and evaluate the model against their own experience as a member of many different groups (educational, social, family, professional), as well as to explore their here-and-now experience as a group member.

This way of working results in a deeper level of awareness and connection to the learning material, which can be better be employed in service of group facilitation for clients. As well as learning from their own internal experience of external events, participants report learning extensively from others sharing their personal and professional life experience in a group setting.

Experiential learning is highly effective and developmental in adult, group-learning environments, allowing communities of practice to evolve.