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EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING METHOD
In our life we learn mostly from experience. We can accept certain explanations, interpretations
and theories as correct, but we believe in them when our thoughts are reaffirmed through our
experiences (Mijoč, 2000).
Students use the experiential learning method to accomplish the learning goals, provided in the
curriculum for the company dealing module. Knowledge gained with this kind of work lasts
longer since the individual is involved in the experience and thinks about it at the same time.
Based on the principles of experiential learning (Summarized from Marentič Požarnik 2000a):
Learning focuses on the process, not the product
Learning is a continued process based on experience
Learning is a cyclic process in which the differences between different ways of knowing are
resolved
One of the pioneers of the experiential learning method is David Kolb. He says that any
learning, where the subjects are in direct contact with the reality they are studying can be
"SCIENCE AND EDUCATION IN THE MODERN WORLD:
CHALLENGES OF THE XXI CENTURY"
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classified as experiential learning. He classifies experiential learning as a process in which
knowledge is produced through experience.
He formed his theory from the notion that education is lacking the inclusion of an individual‘s
concrete experience. In his experiential learning model he describes learning as a process that
begins with a concrete experience, followed by reflective observation, then abstract
conceptualisation and lastly followed by active experimentation.
CONCRETE EXPERIENCE
(CE)
ACTIVE EXPERIMENTATION REFLECTIVE
OBSERVATION
(AI)
(RO)
ABSTRACT CONCEPTUALISATION
(AC)
Picture 1. Kolb‘s model of experiential learning (Marentič Požarnik, 1992)
a. CONCRETE EXPERIENCE – the focus is on a concrete experience and not on the theory or
generalizations.
b. REFLECTIVE OBSERVATION – the phase derived from the concrete experience, we are
trying to think about the experience and understand it.
c. ABSTRACT CONCECEPTUALISATION – the focus is on the logical assumptions and
understanding. The use of theories to explain the observed events.
d. ACTIVE EXPERIMENTATION – new knowledge is put to the test in new situations which
leads to a new concrete experience.
3. ENTREPRENEURSHIP, THE ENTREPRENEUR AND THE BUSINESS IDEA
Entrepreneurship can be defined as (Čargan F., 2008) a basic philosophy and style of economic
development and a basic economic process. At the same time it is the source of progress and
development of the entire sociological life and the process of creating value, in which the
entrepreneur gathers the necessary resources needed for the realization of a business
opportunity.
Entrepreneurship increases competition, technological advancement and therefore influences
societies‘ welfare. It‘s a process in which entrepreneurs use their realized business ideas to
influence the progress of society and economy.
Entrepreneurs are individuals that start new companies, therefore taking on the risk but at the
same time creating and innovating new goods and services. They invest both theirs‘ and others‘
financial assets into the development of goods and services with the intent to succeed on the
market and successfully sell their goods and services.
Among the key traits of an entrepreneur are (Ušaj Hvalič T. et al., 2006):
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Desire to succeed, focus on ideas, opportunities and goals,
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Taking initiative and personal responsibility,
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Perseverance, optimism and intuitiveness,
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Calculated risk taking, independence and determination,
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Honesty and trust,
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Innovativeness, creativity and adaptability…
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