Experiential learning describes a pedagogical approach in which knowledge isn't just absorbed cognitively, but it is actively constructed through one's own doing and experiencing.
The term is largely based on the work of David Kolb, who defined learning as a cyclical process of experiencing, reflecting, conceptualizing, and applying. Unlike purely theoretical teaching methods, experiential learning focuses on active participation, problem solving, and critical reflection. As a result, students develop not only domain-specific knowledge, but also cross-cutting competencies like analytical ability, judgment, and teamwork.
Why is experiential learning relevant in business education?
Business management conveys complex interrelationships that are only partially understood through lectures or textbooks. Topics like strategic decision-making, financial planning, or market mechanisms reveal their full relevance only when experienced in interaction.
Experiential learning offers key advantages here:
- Proximity to real life: Theories are tested in scenarios close to real world conditions.
- Holistic understanding: Students see how decisions in one domain (for example, marketing) affect other areas (for example, finance or production).
- Development of soft skills: Teamwork, communication, conflict resolution, and leadership behavior are intentionally cultivated.
- Motivation and engagement: Active learning formats create greater involvement and joy in learning.
Methods of experiential learning
There are many methods that can be used in higher education:
- Case studies — analyzing concrete business examples followed by discussion.
- Simulations and business games — interactive models that replicate decision‐making processes and place learners in management roles.
- Project work — independently tackling real or simulated problem situations in teams.
- Service learning — combining academic learning with community engagement.
- Experiments and role playing — especially helpful for developing negotiation or communication skills.
Simulations as an example of experiential learning
Simulations — especially business simulations — are considered among the most effective methods of experiential learning in business administration.
Students assume a management role, make decisions in areas such as strategy, finance, marketing, or HR, and immediately see the consequences of their actions. Depending on the simulation, different emphases may be used, e.g., project planning, banking, hotel and restaurant management, or energy management.
Their special value lies in tying theory and practice together:
- Theoretical concepts from lectures are applied in the simulation.
- Reflection phases allow learners to critically examine their own decisions.
- Competition with other teams generates a high level of engagement.
This way, participants develop not only a deeper understanding of business relationships but also skills that are indispensable in their later professional life.
Implementation and challenges
In order for experiential learning to reach its full potential, it should be implemented meaningfully in the teaching design. This means:
- Defining clear learning objectives (e.g. understanding market mechanisms, training leadership behavior).
- Scheduling reflection phases to anchor experiences in theory.
- Finding a balance between structure and openness — students need guidance but also room for their own decisions.
- Considering resources and time, because experiential methods are often more demanding than classical teaching formats.
A Forward-Looking Approach for Teaching Business Education
Experiential learning offers educators the opportunity to teach business content in a way that is practical, interactive, and sustainable. Especially through the use of simulations and business games, students can experience, reflect on, and learn from complex management situations.
For professors and instructors, this opens up a pedagogical tool that goes well beyond simple knowledge transfer: it fosters independence, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility — essential competencies for the next generation of leaders.
If you'd like to learn more about using simulations and business games in higher education, take a look at our business simulations portfolio, where you'll find an overview of various simulations and their areas of application.
