The learning combination lock ‐ an experiential approach to learning design

This article investigates the meaning of experiential learning and relates this to the nature of cognition through the development of an experiential learning model based on information processing. This experiential learning model is then used as the basis for the design of a meta-model ‐ the learning combination lock (LCL). The LCL model provides for the first time, to our knowledge, a systematic process for the trainer, educator or developer to consider and select from some of the main ingredients of the learning process. It is not intended to be used mechanistically but rather as an aide-mémoire which may also be added to and developed according to the considerations of the programme designer, the trainer or educator, and the needs of the learner.