Why experiential learning works (& why we are proud to be human guinea pigs!)

Experiential learning, by our definition, is learning through a careful balance of activity, discussion, and reflection. Other types of learning have their place and their merits, but we believe ‘learning through experience’ is one of the most effective learning methods available.

Incorporating professional actors into experiential learning adds an extra layer of engagement that enhances the experience dramatically. Using our acting team as human guinea pigs enables your business to develop and refine the skills of your workforce without endangering client relationships. 

Here are a handful of other reasons why using actors in this way is so powerful.

1. Realism

Professional actors can simulate real-world scenarios with remarkable authenticity, providing learners with a realistic context to apply their knowledge and test new skills.

2. A safe space to practice

Actors create a controlled environment where learners can rehearse skills such as negotiation, conflict resolution - or indeed any other aspect of communication - without experiencing real-world consequences. The safe space is vital to encourage participants to stretch themselves, experiment with various techniques and learn from any mistakes.

3. Immediate feedback

Through role-playing exercises with actors, learners can receive immediate feedback from their interlocutor, after - or even part way through - an exercise. The actor’s feedback is often regarded as invaluable, after which a learner can reflect on any areas suggested for improvement and even try a different approach.

4. Emotional engagement 

Actors can evoke emotions and reactions that mirror real-life situations, enhancing the emotional engagement of learners. The emotional connection that takes place aids retention of the learning concepts.

5. Versatility 

Actors can carefully calibrate the level of difficulty and be flexible according to each learner’s specific requests or needs. A request to up the difficulty, for example, can do wonders for the confidence of the learner, who is able to practice the ‘worst case scenario’ and dissipate their fear.

Unlike traditional learning methods that may confine employees to the pages of textbooks or have them passively listen to e-learning instruction, experiential learning thrusts the learner into an active, hands-on and ultimately memorable experience.

The integration of our professional actors into experiential learning enriches the experience further. 

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