1. EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Joining Together: Group Theory and Group Skills
11th Edition
David W. Johnson
Frank P. Johnson

2. Procedural Learning Learn the theory conceptually
Translate this conceptual understanding into a set of skills
Use the learned skills
Eliminate errors in using the skills by practice so that you would achieve routine use, automated level of mastery
Only by using group skills will you gain an understanding of what group dynamics is and how useful it can be.

3. Action Theories
Theories about what steps need to be taken to achieve a desired consequence in a given situation.
When behavior is automatic, action theories are based on tacit knowledge – we are rarely aware of them

4. Experiential Learning
Generating an action theory from one’s own experiences and then continually modifying it to improve one’s effectiveness
As a result, the learner’s
Cognitive structures change
Attitudes are modified
Behavioral repertoire is expanded
The three elements are interconnected – one’s whole cognitive-affective behavioral system has to change. Change in only one component will not do it

5. Take action on the basis of one’s current action theory
Implement revised action theory by taking modified action
Assess consequences and obtain feedback
Reflect on how effective actions were and reformulate/refine the action theory

6. Principles of Experiential Learning
People will believe more in knowledge they discovered themselves than in knowledge presented by others
Perceptions of oneself and one’s social environment must change before changes in action theories, attitudes and behaviors will take place.
The more supportive and caring the social environment, the freer the person is to experiment with new behaviors, attitudes and action theories.
Group context is better than individual context.
Both the person and the social environment change
A person accepts a new system of action theories, attitudes and behavioral patterns when he/she accepts membership in a new group

7. Learning Group Skills Understand the relevance of the skill
Understand the skill, its component behaviors, and when it should be used
Find situations where you can practice the skill over and over again with a coach
Assess how well the skill is implemented
Keep practicing until the skill becomes automatic
Set up manageable practice units
Get friends to encourage you use the skill
Help others learn the skill

8. “All Men By Nature Desire To Learn” Aristotle
Experiential learning stresses psychological success, the sense of accomplishment in learning
What leads to success?
You are able to define your own goals
The goals are related to your central needs and values
You are able to define the paths that lead to the accomplishment of the goals
The goals represent a realistic aspiration for you

9. Learning How To Be A Participant-Observer
Observe group members’ actions and the overall group process
Participate actively
Engage in modified behavior in next group meeting
Give and receive feedback
Reflect on feedback personally and jointly with other group members and set goals for improvements

10. Observing A Group In Action
Describing and recording behavior as it occurs (How often are certain events or actions happening?)  inferences about the group process
Problem: potential lack of objectivity
Solution: structured coding systems
Define exactly the behaviors, skills and events being observed
Determine the time period of data collection
Enter the actions in question in the 1st column, and make additional columns for each member of the group. Make a final column to record the total for each row

11. A Typical Skill Training Session
Introduction, warm up discussion
Exercise
Participants conceptualize, analyze and summarize their experience, with the help of discussion questions and data feedback
General session – integration of learnings, theory, and research
Discuss how to apply the learnings and skills
Evaluation
Closure

12. Summary
Action theory action  reflection  new (refined) action theory  action  reflection, etc.
Progressive refinement of knowledge and skills as the procedures are practiced, practiced and practiced
Participation and observation
Ethical concerns