Experiential learning through anecdotes can provide an ah-ha moment

Albert Einstein said, “I never teach my pupils, I only attempt to provide the conditions in which they can learn.” We learn best when we are able to relate a lesson to a specific experience. While most experiential learning is done by evaluating personal mistakes it is also possible to gain through anecdotes that have some sort of “ah-ha” moment.

An “ah-ha” moment refers to a point in a story where the listener suddenly sees the point or lesson the story is attempting to make.

Anecdotes are a feature of the training and development website getmaximpact.com, operated by its namesake in Rochester Hills, Mich. They have posted a great deal of materials including over a dozen anecdotes with specific learning lessons. Here is a summary:

1. This anniversary message would have been better if it had not been sent.
2. Why do bad company policies persist? This is one explanation.
3. When you are nothing but a "yes" person it can be bad for your career.
4. A fishing story that shows bad side of embellishment.
5. These fleas explain how employees learn.
6. The funeral story shows why you should listen to the full explanation.
7. You should always get the facts first when giving advice.
8. The Hole Story shows what happens when employees are not allowed to think for themselves.
9. The lack of honesty can lead to embarrassment.
10. What word is most often both spoken and spelled incorrectly?
11. Are you a literal or lateral thinker?
12. Outlook may be a key to success.
13. What does a messy desk show us about personality challenges.