This week I am seeing learning as a series of transitions. These stages of development become more complex until abstract thinking can occur. You must be able to not only retain information to learn but you also need to adjust your point of view at times. When you learn new concepts, you may find that an altered perspective makes more sense. You have to be able to question your own assumptions in order to fully integrate new ideas. I also like the idea of critical reflection in getting adults to think for themselves. This kind of "on purpose" thinking and evaluating empowers learners to change and adjust.
How can learning be best effectuated by a teacher/trainer?
I think a teacher can provide opportunities for a student to see a concept from a different perspective. The first step of that would require an awareness of what the different perspectives might be. The teacher then guides the students down the path of thinking allowing for individual interpretation on the part of the student. This would apply to philosophical subjects and concepts, not necessarily math or brain surgery!
Sharee-
ReplyDeleteI like how you brought up the ability to question your own thinking. I teach in elementary and I think I often get caught up in concrete operations. I like things to be spelled out for me and it makes me anxious to rethink what I consider "rules" or "fixed elements". Maybe I haven't completely moved into abstract thinking?
Sharee,
ReplyDeleteThanks. You helped me see this subject in a clearer light and better understanding. I guess that is what it is about – a different point of view or frame of mind. Questioning assumptions – my, if the whole world would occasionally do this. And reflective thinking, what a great thing – to ponder on what you have done and where you are going.
I must disagree on the math and brain surgery, though. If this type of learning were not applied to these areas as well, we would still have the surgery used by Aztecs and the rudimentary mathematics of the early middle-eastern nomads. Piaget’s path shows a trail to every kind of knowledge.
My best to you, Howard Bezzant
meta-cognition is an important skill...being able to reflect on one's thinking is an important driver of the ability to think abstractly.
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