Reflective Self Analysis as Learner-Kolb’s Experiential Learning Style

Question: Discuss about the Article for Reflective Self Analysis as a Learner. Answer: Introduction My major in Leicester International Pathway College is in Business Management. I have completed my foundation course and have studied modules such as for the purposes of Academics English, Accounting, Business Management, Economics, Business Functions and Study Skills. I am currently in the third term, which is the last term, of the foundation year. This foundation course has helped me, as an international student, in various important ways and aspects, which includes language and in particular helped me get a better grasp in my subject of major which is Business Management. Studying in the foundation course of the college has had various benefits over all, since they are designed for international students who may face challenges that are unique this course has aided my to these special needs, like in the field of language. It has been tailored in a manner that it ensures that I am ready academically and also confident personally to be able to take the undergraduate course in the De Montfort University. Since the standards of education are very different in the UK as compared to my home country, this course has aided to level out the difference and familiarize with the learning methods, teaching methods, hours of study, etc. that is there in the UK with that which is there in my country. This foundation course has helped me move forward towards my major. Language is a daunting aspect being an international student. This foundation course has helped me become more focused by providing training in English for academic purposes that will help even in my future degrees. Further the foundation degree has helped not only in studying the core common modules which are there but also modules that are focused in the areas of academics which will help with my chose structure of Business Management for my majors in college. As a foundation course graduate there is an upper-hand which is there as compared to those students who are entering straight from their schools for higher education. Since these courses were taught in the manner of the university style of teaching with tutorials, seminars, classes and lecture. They have prepared me for the studies in future in the universities. Foundation course also ensures that there is time for me to settle into the university program for the full degree. It also ensured that I would be able to settle int o not just the academic life but also my personal life. It also put in touch with those international who are or would be facing similar situations like me. It has ensured that I have a better foundation in the university before the start of the course. Learning Methods There are various types learning methods which are used in a learning environment. One of these methods is the Kolbs experiential learning style theory is one of them, it represented typically by a learning cycle which is in four stages wherein it is required by the learner to be able to touch all the four bases (Kolb and Kolb 2005). The first base is that of Concrete Experience, an experience of a situation which is new is encountered or there is an interpretation of the experience which already exists. The second base is that of Reflective Observation which means an experience which is completely new. The most important aspect here is whether there exists any inconsistency between understanding and experience. The third base is of Abstract Conceptualization which means reflection which leads to there being ideas that are new or modifying of concepts that are already in existence. The fourth base if Active Experimentation which means there is applicability by the learner in the world which surrounds to understand the results that it would generate (Gibbs 1988). Another method of learning is the Gibbs reflective cycle, in which encouragement is given to be able to think in a manner that is systematic about the phases of an activity or an experience, all the headings are to be used for structuring the reflection. The reflective cycle (Gibbs 1988) The reflective cycle of Gibbs is very important in aiding in thinking through the various phases of an activity or experience. The first phase is that of Description meaning thereby describing what had happened. The second phase is that of Feelings meaning thereby what was felt or though at the time. The third phase is that of Evaluation what bad or good resulted out of the experience. The fourth phase is that of Conclusion, which includes what else could also have been done. Learning Methods Experienced There are different learning methods which have been experienced by me during my foundation course. I have been taught through analyzing different experience, past, present, including putting me through new experiences throughout the learning process. This has been ensured through tutorials, presentations, debates, assignments, etc. That have aided in the analysis of the various situations presented before me. The foundation course has ensured that I become an independent learner as well as work within teams. It has helped me understand how essays and presentations are to be made so that the same meets the university standards. Further being an international student this course has familiarized me with the high education system that exists in the UK especially in the university making me more prepared for the classes and course work that will take place here. Studying Business Management module in the foundation course has given me a clear picture about how my course in the Bachelor degree will be and it enlighten me also about the business studies in general Comparative Analysis Comparing the learning methods that is there in Saudi Arabia, which is my home country, and here. There is quite a lot of difference which is there. In the teaching and learning methods there is an extensive use of technology which is not the case back in Saudi Arabia. I have found the use of technology aids in making learning much more comfortable and easy. Further email communication is also another aspect which is more prevalent here as compared to in the UK and this mode of communication is much more professional and faster. Improvements Required There are certain areas which I need to improvise in which are that of my listening skills and my ability to be able to take notes. In my opinion these are the areas that I am lacking in and which need to be improved for ensuring that it does not create a hindrance once I begin my majors in the university. One way that I hope to enhance these skills is by listening to the lectures in Ted-Talks three times and week and taking down the important notes for these lectures. Conclusion Conclusively it can be stated that this foundation course has been extremely important in not only assisting with getting a familiarity with the learning and teaching method of the university including in the area of my major. But also helping me settle down in the university prior to the beginning of the course. References Gibbs, G. (1988).Gibbs a guide to teaching and learning methods. Ofxord. Kolb, A. and Kolb, D. (2005). Learning Styles and Learning Spaces: Enhancing Experiential Learning in Higher Education.Academy of Management Learning Education, 4(2), pp.193-212.