Customized Debriefing: The Achilles Heel of Experiential Learning?

Abstract

The debriefing or feedback segment of the experiential exercise is a very critical part of that exercise and has not been given the attention and planning it deserves. If questions of manipulation of participants, credibility and intent of the faculty leader, and real applicability of results for the manager are to be resolved, we must do a better job of debriefing. Since the experiential method recognizes that participants are unique and perceive differently, debriefing segments should be reasonably customized for increased acceptance and understanding by those participants. The results should be more long-term internalization of cognitive material and Interpersonal skills.