What type of learning occurs when students engage in activities to acquire skills through experience?

The concept of learning through engagement in activities to acquire skills is best described by experiential learning. This approach emphasizes the importance of direct experience as a core component of the learning process, allowing students to apply knowledge in real-world contexts and reflect on these experiences to enhance understanding.

While active learning is an integral part of experiential learning as it involves participating actively in the learning process, the term "experiential learning" specifically captures the essence of gaining skills through lived experiences. This type of learning often includes hands-on activities, simulations, and opportunities for reflection, making it crucial for developing practical skills and deeper comprehension.

In contrast, passive learning involves absorbing information without active engagement, which does not align with the idea of acquiring skills through experience. Collaborative learning refers to learning that occurs in groups and focuses on teamwork and communication rather than individual experiential activities. Therefore, experiential learning is the most accurate term that encompasses the process described in the question.