8-21-2015

Mary’s Minute

“We do not learn only from great minds; we learn from everyone, if only we observe and inquire.”

~ D.A. Doxiadis

When we think of learning as a simple transfer of knowledge, it is logical that the best way to learn is from really smart people.  In this model knowledge is viewed as content – something tangible that can be held.  If learning is viewed this way, a good metaphor would be to think of education as a dump truck and learning as the process of filling up students with the content of the truck bed.  Thinking about learning this way is simple, but not accurate!  True learning is transitive rather than a transfer.  It is more complicated, but more exciting and accurate.  Learning from everyone by observing and inquiring is also fun!

This quote is helpful for me because it brings to light that learning is not about the content, but what we do with it.  Learning is enhanced by multiple perspectives when we the content is the springboard for questioning.  Thinking of learning this way, a better metaphor might be a lava lamp that is in constant motion with give and take. 

At Perry Central our students are learning not simply by being filled with knowledge of their “smart” teachers, but more importantly by working with their skillful teachers to observe and inquire in order to gain insight from multiple perspectives.  Our country is built on innovators, and by seeing learning as a transitive process we are helping to nurture the innovators of the future!