The Active Learner

What does it mean to be an active learner? Isn't it what we wish for all of our students? I want them to take an active role in their own learning.  I want my students to be active learners.

"If you're ready to help me, I'll find you."  I will admit that it is a little overwhelming to think that students today are learning and want to learn in very different ways than what I can understand or recall.  I don't feel that "outdated", but in a world where the iPhone 4 is free not long after it made it's debut, you begin to realize how quickly our world is moving.  Can I keep up with the latest form of communication?  Can I understand and teach myself the ways of digital learning?  Can I keep up with the active learner?  I need to, because as the video said, "If you're ready to help me, I'll find you."

"To learn about Chinese History from someone in Beijing."  I am equally excited by the opportunity that presents itself with active learners.  There are wonderful opportunities through technology and the connections that technology allow us to make.  To do more than read about something.  To see it through videos, pictures, live chats!  The resources are numerous.  By having active learners as students it allows us, as teachers, to continue to be active learners.  To learn along side our students and allow them lead in the exploration. 

"Will I be prepared?"  It is really our duty, as educators, to prepare our students for success.  That has not changed. There has to be some fear or apprehension in their minds.  Will we prepare them?  Will we do the best job we can so that they can be ready for the competitive, fast-paced world?   Although it was decades and decades ago (HA!), I can recall my teachers that would continue to teach in the manner with which they were taught.  The lessons seemed so irrelevant.  But a teacher that could adapt our lesson and make it relevant to what we liked, to what we understood, were the lessons I can still recall many years later.

Where do I see myself?  I want to be an active learner also.  I want to inspire my students.  I want to be inspired by them.  I want to keep up, but I also want to teach them the importance of slowing down and smelling a flower, not just seeing it online.  Whether I reflect on my past, or look into my future, I think education works well when there is balance.  Bringing worlds together and getting excited about the possibility, the opportunity and the understanding.  I think I'm ready!