Structured Experiential Learning

Structured Experiential Learning (SEL) , formerly known as Outbound Learning (OBL), is based on the popular axiom “experience is the best teacher”. It integrates variety of fun-filled activities that simulates real-life situations and is conducted in a controlled, risk- free and non-threatening environment.

Structured Experiential Learning is a method that simulates experiences and creates opportunity for learners to discover, comprehend/understand and alter/develop attitudes and behaviours. Most competences (attitude and behaviour) are unconscious and SEL helps in sensitising learners to their competences or the lack of them.

Structured Experiential Learning sensitizes participants to their unconscious competencies by opening the blind and dark quadrants of their Johari Window.

Experience-Reflection-Internalisation-Validation Cycle enables the participants to

• Challenge inhibitions,
• Question habits,
• Confront fears,
• Open up and
• Express feelings in a non-judgmental way.

In SEL, outward bound settings are preferred because they are amidst nature. SEL settings emulate nature, maintain level field (as much as the sun or rain that is same for all!), and provide a risk free and non-threatening learning climate. Here risk-proofing is not only at the physical level but also from life and career angles. The only outcome of SEL is learning and this philosophy is kept in mind during design of an SEL programme. Unlike in a class room, in SEL, our head, heart and gut are involved. In fact the entire body is learning!