Experiential Learning: A Dynamic Aspect of Iqbal’s Philosophy of Development of Khudi

Experiential Learning from Iqbal's perspective

Abstract

This qualitative paper investigates Iqbal’s dynamic concept of experiential learning presented in his philosophy of khudi through phenomenological study. The historical and philosophical foundations of experiential learning and the relevance of Iqbal’s ideas to contemporary education are explored through in-depth phenomenological interviews of twenty young adolescents about their perception of experiential learning and how it helps to develop their khudi (individuality). Content analysis of Iqbal’s anthology of sixteen poems, ‘Asrar-i-Khudi’ and some selected works from Iqbal’s prose and poetry was also undertaken to draw Iqbal’s ideas of experiential learning and its role in the development of khudi. Selected secondary sources, including research papers, articles, books, and other scholarly analyses of Iqbal’s works were also used. Thematic analysis of the data revealed three themes; the role of environment, the role of action, and the role of trial and error in experiential learning which endorse Iqbal’s ideas of experiential learning and the factors that facilitate it. Iqbal has emphasized active experiential learning for the development of khudi as only a dynamic personality in interaction with the environment and material world will reach his full potential. Results also reveal that like Iqbal, adolescents also perceive experiential learning as providing opportunities to construct their concepts, unleash their creative powers in a free environment and take responsibility for their actions. According to Iqbal, all new developments in science, arts and culture are also the result of an active self. Recommendations are given for the implications of Iqbal's concept of experiential learning for teaching and learning practices in diverse educational settings through well-formed policies and their implementation in classroom settings through thoughtfully designed curricula that allow individual learners to actively participate in their learning and self-growth.

 Keywords: experiential learning, khudi, self-realization, Iqbal’s educational philosophy, active learning