Many theories try to explain how people learn. This theory was advanced by Kolb, Rubin and McIntyre and I think it is pretty accurate.
They suggest that learning is a continuous cyclic process with four stages as follows:
A. Experience.
B. Observation and reflection. You look back at the experience intospectively, reviewing general issues raised and their significance.
C. Abstract Conceptualisation. Having observed and reflected on the experience, you develop a body of ideas, theories or priciples which can be applied to other similar situations.
D.Active Experimentation. Involves applying the developed principles through creativity, decision making and problem solving.