5 Reasons to Adopt Experiential Learning for Employee Growth and Development

Employees are vital for any organization, and businesses must focus on their continuous learning and development. Although you can explore the various employee training programs to accomplish short-term and long-term business goals, it is hard to match the impact of experiential learning programs. Below are the various ways experiential learning can be a game-changer in employee growth and development.

1. Ensures Active Engagement and Participation – Experiential learning encourages active engagement and participation, leading to higher learning retention levels. Studies have shown that individuals retain only a small percentage of information from passive learning methods, such as lectures. On the other hand, experiential learning programs such as virtual team games promote active involvement, allowing employees to apply concepts, solve problems, and make decisions in real-world scenarios. This hands-on approach enhances knowledge retention and improves skill development.

According to a National Training Laboratories Institute study, People retain approximately 75% of knowledge gained through experiential learning compared to just 5% through lecture-based learning.

2. Encourages Skill Development – Experiential learning focuses on skill development by providing employees with opportunities to practice and apply what they have learned. Employees develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills by engaging in activities that mirror real-life challenges. Experiential learning enables employees to gain practical experience and become more confident in their abilities, whether through simulations, case studies, or role-playing exercises.

3. Fosters Better Team Collaboration and Communication – Experiential learning involves numerous virtual team games and activities that foster collaboration and effective communication. Employees learn to navigate diverse perspectives, resolve conflicts, and communicate effectively by working together on projects or simulations. These experiences help build stronger relationships, improve teamwork, and enhance organizational productivity. Furthermore, employees who are actively involved in problem-solving scenarios develop a sense of ownership and accountability for their team’s success.

4. Promotes Adaptability and Change Management – Organizations must equip employees with the ability to change quickly. By exposing employees to realistic scenarios that require them to respond to change, experiential learning helps them become more flexible, resilient, and open to new ideas. Further, employees learn to embrace change, manage uncertainty, and proactively seek innovative solutions, ultimately driving organizational agility.

Based on a survey conducted by Deloitte, 90% of executives believe that the capacity to adapt, innovate, and embrace change is vital for organizational success.

5. Contributes to Personal and Professional Growth – By indulging in virtual team games and activities, employees can leverage opportunities for self-reflection, feedback, and coaching to gain valuable insights into their strengths, areas for improvement, and growth potential. Organizations foster a development culture by engaging employees in Experiential Learning Programs that increase job performance, trust, and interpersonal communication.