Kolbʼs Learning Styles

Kolbʼs experiential learning theory works on two levels: a four stage cycle of learning and four separate learning styles.

	Convergers (active experimentation-abstract conceptualization),
	Accommodators (active experimentation-concrete experience),
	Assimilators (reflective observation-abstract conceptualization),
	Divergers (reflective observation-concrete experience).

Diverging (feeling and watching – CE/RO)

	to look at things from different perspectives,
	to be sensitive,
	to prefer to watch rather than do,
	tending to gather information and use imagination to solve problems,
	best at viewing concrete situations from several different viewpoints,
	perform better in situations that require ideas-generation, for example, brainstorming,
	have broad cultural interests and like to gather information,
	interested in people, tend to be imaginative and emotional, and tend to be strong in the arts,
	prefer to work in groups, to listen with an open mind and to receive personal feedback.

Assimilating (watching and thinking – AC/RO)

	require good clear explanation rather than practical opportunity,
	excel at understanding wide-ranging information and organizing it in a clear logical format,
	less focused on people and more interested in ideas and abstract concepts,
	more attracted to logically sound theories than approaches based on practical value. prefer readings, lectures, exploring analytical models and having time to think things through.

Converging (doing and thinking – AC/AE)

	can solve problems and find solutions to practical issues,
	prefer technical tasks, and are less concerned with people and interpersonal aspects,
	are best at finding practical uses for ideas and theories – are more attracted to technical tasks and problems than social or interpersonal issues – like to experiment with new ideas, to simulate, and to work with practical applications.

Accommodating (doing and feeling – CE/AE)

	rely on intuition rather than logic,
	use other peopleʼs analysis, and prefer to take a practical, experiential approach,
	are attracted to new challenges and experiences, and to carrying out plans,
	commonly act on ʼgutʼ instinct rather than logical analysis,
	tend to rely on others for information rather than carry out their own analysis,
	are useful in roles requiring action and initiative,
	prefer to work in teams to complete tasks,
	set targets and work actively in the field trying different ways to achieve an objective.