Learning by Doing in Education: Xun Kuang & Cone of Experience

For centuries, educators and philosophers have agreed on one timeless truth: the best way to learn is by doing. From the ancient teachings of Xun Kuang (Xunzi) to Edgar Dale’s Cone of Experience, the principle of hands-on learning has shaped how students engage with knowledge, develop skills, and retain information. In today’s K–12 education, these ideas continue to influence how teachers design lessons and how parents can support active learning at home.

Xun Kuang’s Wisdom: Practice Leads to Mastery

Xun Kuang (also known as Xunzi), a renowned Chinese philosopher of the Warring States period, believed that true understanding comes only through personal practice. He argued that listening or reading introduces an idea, but only by applying it through real action can one internalize and master it.

This concept mirrors modern “learning by doing.” A student who reads about bridge engineering may understand the theory, but when they actually construct one—calculating balance, weight, and design—they gain true insight.

As the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy explains, Xun Kuang emphasized deliberate, repeated practice as the bridge between knowledge and wisdom. His teachings highlight a learning process that values experience, persistence, and application.

The Cone of Experience: A Modern Visual of Learning Depth

Centuries after Xun Kuang, American educator Edgar Dale developed the Cone of Experience to illustrate how different types of learning experiences impact retention. At the base of the cone are the most concrete and direct experiences—hands-on practice, experimentation, and real-world simulations. As one moves up the cone, experiences become more abstract, such as reading or listening to lectures, which often result in lower retention.

According to an ERIC education study, experiential learning methods significantly improve student comprehension and long-term memory. Students are more likely to remember concepts they’ve physically applied or explored through active participation rather than passive observation.

Why “Learning by Doing” Works So Well

Both Xun Kuang’s philosophy and Dale’s model highlight how engaging multiple senses deepens learning. When students do, they connect thought and action—creating stronger neural pathways and emotional connections to knowledge.

Benefits of experiential learning include:

• Higher retention: Students remember more through action and reflection.
• Improved critical thinking: Hands-on learning encourages questioning, experimentation, and adaptation.
• Real-world connection: Lessons feel meaningful and applicable beyond the classroom.
• Enhanced motivation: Students are more engaged when learning feels active and rewarding.

As noted in ASCD’s article on place-based education, experiential and context-driven learning helps students “see the why” behind what they’re studying—whether they’re growing a classroom garden or analyzing local history.

Applying These Theories in K–12 Education

Today’s teachers are rediscovering the power of experiential learning in all subjects. Incorporating “learning by doing” doesn’t always require complex tools or technology—just creativity and intention.

Examples of experiential learning in action:

• Science: Students conduct their own experiments and record real-time data.
• History: Role-play historical debates or reenact events to understand cause and effect.
• Math: Use building projects or cooking measurements to apply geometry and ratios.
• Language Arts: Perform scenes from literature to explore tone, dialogue, and emotion.

Even outside school, parents can apply the same principles—encouraging children to learn through projects, exploration, and reflection.

Bringing “Learning by Doing” Home

Parents can nurture experiential learning at home through simple, meaningful activities:

• Involve children in real-world tasks. Cooking, gardening, or budgeting teaches practical math and science skills.
• Encourage exploration. Field trips to museums or nature trails create sensory learning experiences.
• Reflect together. Ask open-ended questions like “What did you notice?” or “What would you try differently next time?”

When children connect ideas to personal experiences, learning becomes natural and long-lasting.

Final Thoughts

From Xun Kuang’s ancient insights to Dale’s 20th-century theories, one truth remains unchanged: we learn best when we are actively involved. Hands-on learning empowers students to transform information into understanding. Whether in a classroom experiment, a role-playing activity, or a home project, every direct experience builds both knowledge and confidence. When educators and families embrace “learning by doing,” they help students not just remember lessons—but truly live them.

About Think Academy

Think Academy, part of TAL Education Group, helps K–12 students succeed in school today by building strong math foundations and critical thinking skills. At the same time, we focus on the bigger picture—developing learning ability, curiosity, and healthy study habits that inspire a lifelong love of learning. With expert teachers, proven methods, and innovative AI tools, we support every child’s journey from classroom confidence to long-term growth.

Want more insights on math learning and parenting? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly tips and the latest resources.