This semester, I have been innovative as a learner in so many ways. This class is definitely where I have seen me the most innovative. George Curous said, “I share because the learning I create and the experiences I have help others. I share to push my own thinking, and to make an impact on learners, both young and old, all over the world” on his blog The Mindset of an Innovator, and this really stood out to me. This stood out to me because I have never been one to share. I have been very shy and private, especially when it comes to my schoolwork because I did not want classmates comparing my work with theirs. However, this class has taught me to open up and be innovative in the way of sharing, even if it is mistakes, because everyone can learn and take something away from my learnings (which I think is great).
To me, innovation in learning can look just about like anything. It varies depending on the learner. Generally speaking, innovation in learning looks like the learner stepping outside of their comfort zone and trying new ways, techniques, and ideas out to improve their learning, efficiency, or to help others.
What have I unlearned this semester? Well, I could not have said it any better than The Steep: “Unlearning Curve” did. “We need to unlearn the premise that we know more than our kids, because in many cases, they can now be our teachers as well.” I have not necessarily learned this in this class, but at my work at a country school. The students every day have taught me new things, so I have unlearned that I am smarter than them. I have come to terms with the fact they know things I don’t know and vice versa. I am really glad that I unlearned this because it is so important to always be growing as a teacher so you can better reach your students. And what better way to do that than to realize you are equal, both smart, and can both learn and teach each other?
The Steep: “Unlearning Curve” also said “We need to unlearn the notion that our students don’t need to see and understand how we ourselves learn.” That is one thing I still need to unlearn. I am trying to always show students what works for me, and I need to realize that what works for me may not work for them. I need to zero in on their learning style and try to be innovative and come up with personalized tricks for them. But, I think I am well on the way of unlearning this, even if I am unlearning it the hard way. 🙂
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