PsychologistDavid Kolbfirst outlined his theory of learning styles in 1984.
In addition to describing four different learning styles, Kolb also developed a theory ofexperiential learningand alearning style inventory.
First, immediate and concrete experiences serve as a basis for observation.
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In the next step, the learner forms abstract concepts and generalizations based on their hypothesis.
Finally, the learner tests the implications of these concepts in new situations.
After this step, the process once again cycles back to the first stage of the experiential process.
They are highly skilled in the practical system of ideas.
They tend to do best in situations where there is a single best solution or answer to a problem.
Divergers tend to be emotional and creative and enjoy brainstorming to come up with new ideas.
The Assimilator
Assimilators are skilled in the areas of Abstract Conceptualization and Reflective Observation.
Understanding and creating theoretical models is one of their greatest strengths.
Individuals who work in math and the basic sciences tend to have this throw in of learning style.
Assimilators also enjoy work that involves planning and research.
The Accommodator
People with this learning style are strongest in Concrete Experience and Active Experimentation.
This style is basically the opposite of the Assimilator style.
Accommodators are doers; they enjoy performing experiments and carrying out plans in the real world.
Out of all four learning styles, Accommodators tend to be the greatest risk-takers.
They are good at thinking on their feet and changing their plans spontaneously in response to new information.
When solving problems, they typically use a trial-and-error approach.
People with this learning style often work in technical fields or in action-oriented jobs such as sales and marketing.
TheJungian learning stylesare also based upon the types identified on the MBTI.
The MBTI is a personality inventory based on Jung’s work that looks at personality across four major dimensions.
The Extraversion/Introversion dimension on the MBTI is very similar to Kolb’s Active/Reflective dimension.
The Feeling/Thinking dimension on the MBTI is also very similar to Kolb’s Concrete/Abstract dimension.
New York, NY: Routledge; 2011.
Cambridge, MA: Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Alfred P. Sloan School of Management; 1973.
Smith MK.David A. Kolb on Experiential Learning.
