We’re in an era where learning is paramount. The focus has shifted from simply improving teaching to understanding the intricate process of how students learn. This introspection raises a crucial question: how do we, as educators, learn? How does our understanding of our own learning processes influence our teaching methods?
Reflecting on my own college experience, I recall identifying primarily as a student, absorbing content without deeply considering the how of learning. Learning felt abstract, a vague concept without clear definition. This observation prompted me to explore the learning practices of educators.
In a workshop focused on reflection for professional growth, I asked participants to analyze their personal learning styles. 
alt text: Person writing in a notebook during a workshop about learning Surprisingly, the discussion gravitated towards general learning theories instead of personal insights. Was it hesitation to share vulnerabilities? An unclear question? Or perhaps a lack of prior reflection on individual learning processes?
Many of us have dabbled in learning style assessments. We identify broad preferences: learning from text versus visual aids, favoring open-ended questions over definitive answers, excelling with details but struggling with the bigger picture. While helpful starting points, these remain generalizations. Neuroscience research underscores the uniqueness of each learner, highlighting the individual nature of understanding and sense-making. We need a more nuanced understanding of our own learning mechanisms.
Another crucial aspect is the interplay between subject matter and learning style. Do we gravitate towards disciplines that align with our cognitive preferences, or do these disciplines shape our thinking and learning processes over time? Is it a synergistic relationship? These questions warrant deeper investigation.
Stepping outside our comfort zones by learning something entirely new can illuminate our own learning processes. Learning to kayak this summer, I found myself embodying the struggles of a novice learner. My usual learning strategies proved ineffective in this physical domain. This experience highlighted the importance of adaptability and recognizing the diverse ways in which we acquire knowledge.
I firmly believe our learning preferences influence our teaching decisions. We gravitate towards teaching methods that resonate with our own learning styles. Lecturing extensively because we learn well by listening, or assigning heavy reading loads because that’s how we process information, are common examples. However, there are likely subtler connections. How does our preference for collaborative learning or independent study impact our classroom practices?
Understanding the intricate relationship between how we learn and how we teach is paramount. It directly impacts how our students learn. Effective teaching starts with a profound understanding of our own learning journeys. By acknowledging and embracing the complexities of our own learning, we pave the way for more effective and impactful teaching practices.
How Do You Learn? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below.
