Application of Experiential Learning in Teaching Physics

The thesis deals with the method of experiential learning and its applications in teaching physics. Experiential learning is regarded as one of the possibilities how to accomplish educational goals. The first part of the thesis constitutes a reflection on the meaning of education, it offers, among others, a reason for discovering more about experiential learning. Furthermore, the theoretical background of experiential learning is described - Kolb's cycle and learning styles derived from it form a significant part; the growth zone is also presented. Attention is also paid to how the teacher and student are viewed in experiential learning. After the theoretical introduction, the thesis is more practical. It explains what a teacher has to know when creating and presenting an activity for students. This is followed by specific suggestions of activities which use the method of experiential learning and which are to be realised mainly outside the classroom (e.g. at an overnight school trip). The activities deal with different topics of physics (e.g. optics, acoustics or astrophysics). Students' own involvement and experience are emphasised. Suggested activities can supplement ordinary school teaching and thus let students know physics from a different perspective.