Will R. Yliniemi M.Ed. Cohort Learning Task #3 July 19, 1999

WHO ARE THE EXPERTS?

In reviewing literature for various M.Ed. courses, and as I begin to conduct research for my masters paper, I am humbled and amazed at number and the diversity of methodological teaching theories that exist. Each teaching and learning theory has components that are intriguing and represent an additional area of exploration. A component of many of the researched learning theories is referred to as Active Learning. Now, this is not earth shattering in its concept, but is it practiced as much as it is promoted or discussed?

We ultimately learn by doing. The Greek word Praxis means action with reflection. When we practice a skill, analyze our practice, and then repeat the practice at a higher level, we move from practice to Praxis. Passive learning mainly involves learning by hearing, reading, or watching. This is learning by telling, whereas Active Learning is learning by doing. The effectiveness of the Praxis method is quite obvious, but the tools that need to be incorporated into teaching methodologies are not as obvious. An interesting Quote from John Dewey (1916), Democracy in Education, Why is it that in spite of the fact that teaching by pouring in, and learning by passive absorption, are universally condemned, educators are still so entrenched in practice Education is not an affair of telling, and being told, but an active constructive process. Joann Ward (1995) stated: Passive learning is called indoctrination. When we think critically we become active learners. Instructional products must challenge learners to be active learners. Instructional products must challenge learners to become active participants in the knowledge construction process, rather than passive recipients of pre-packaged knowledge.

Looking for a list of Experts (if there is such a person) is not difficult, as multiple lists of such people exist. Recent exposure to information on transformational learning, through my reading and Sue Dammes Transformative Learning graduate course suggests that there are recognized authorities in active and/or transformative learning.

Experts Include:

Stephen Brookfield: Understanding and Facilitating Adult Learning- 1986, Self Directed Learning, Becoming a Critically Reflective Teacher - 1989, Critical Thinking - 1989, and others.

Jack Mezirow: Transformative Dimensions of Adult Learning 1991, Fostering Critical Reflection in Adulthood -1990.

Rosemary Caffarella & Sharan Merriam: Learning in Adulthood  1991

Patricia Cranton: Transformative Learning in Action  1997, Understanding and Promoting Transformative Learning  1994

Peter Senge: The Fifth Discipline: The Art and Practice of the Learning Organization  1990, The Fifth Discipline Fieldbook  1994

U of MN Extension Staff Experts:

Sue Damme  Staff Development Leader

Joyce Walker  4-H Youth Development

-- Anonymous, July 21, 1999