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Learning is the process of accessing information and increasing one’s ability to solve problems or experience something in a new way.

My learning philosophy has evolved over the last 15 weeks as I have gained more awareness to learning cultures and web 2.0 technologies. Previously learning was constructed around an ownership or power relationship, where one party had the knowledge (teacher) and will share the knowledge with another (student). This learning typically happened in a formal classroom setting, with the teacher standing in front of the class giving the information via lecture to the students. In my new learning philosophy, learning is dynamic and requires collaboration, engagement, feedback, and play. Learning can happen anywhere with anyone. Due to the limitless access to information via the internet, students can learn any topic from a remote expert with barriers of the traditional education system. Peers can share knowledge that is primarily valuable to them and store that knowledge on the web for others to read, edit, and improve for future learners.

Teaching is the process of making information accessible and actionable for the learner.

Anyone can be a student and anyone can be a teacher. The roles are fluid in my new learning philosophy and allow the student to see themselves as the owner and creator of their knowledge. The teacher adapts from giving the exact script of the lesson plan, to a more question-based lesson in order to help the student experience the learning firsthand.

Technology is a learning catalyst in my philosophy. Technology is the method for students and teachers to collaborate, to exchange information, and to access information that is beyond their immediate environment. Technology should allow easy access to resources and share information quickly and broadly. Learning online includes allowing the information/knowledge to grow/change/evolve when new learners have improvements or insights to share.

Learning takes place when the student is engaged in finding new information and connecting it to their life. Learning is measure beyond more than test scores, but the student’s ability to interpret the information in the context of their own life. Learning takes place when the student can demonstrate a skill or see improvement in their ability. Learning can be subtle including a new way of thinking about the world.