Developing the right attitude is helped by having some understanding about how learning happens. Current knowledge about learning has led to the development of several principles which underpin learning. These are:
Self-concept influences learning. Learning is facilitated when individuals have a positive attitude towards themselves as people and as learners. High self-esteem is developed when diversity is valued and success in learning results from building on previous experiences. Successful learning helps to build confidence.
Learning is an active process . People learn most effectively when they are interested in and participating in activities. Knowing and understanding the purpose of learning activities, and being able to relate in a personal way to them, enables the learner to have some control over what is learnt and how.
Children's environments and relationships influence learning . Learning occurs most effectively in secure, caring and supportive environments where children and adults respect and trust each other. Positive and supportive relationships between children, and between children and adults, enhance and promote successful learning.
Language is basic to learning . Thinking aloud, talking through a task, asking questions, explaining new concepts and acquiring new language for new experiences are all part of the learning process. Scope for talking, questioning, explaining and discussing, as well as for reading and writing, is essential for the promotion of effective learning. In the home school you will find a lot of learning occurs incidentally through the processes of conversation.
People learn in different ways . Individuals differ in the ways they go about learning, and in the strategies they use for solving problems. The time it takes to learn things can differ between individuals. The curriculum, resources and structures provided for learning should take these differences into account.
All people are learners . Everyone has the capacity to think and to learn, and should have the opportunity to learn through a wide range of activities.
Learning is a life-long process . Learning begins at birth and continues throughout life, continually building on prior experiences. An education program should accept and develop the planned and unplanned learning that occurs all the time in all situations.
A good way to begin thinking about how learning happens is to critically examine a recent situation in which you learned something new, especially a skill. Consider all of the factors which helped or hindered the learning process for you. What would you change now, if you could, to make it more enjoyable or easier? How could you build this reflective process into planning educational programs for your children? Beginning to understand how learning happens in a personal way as an adult can lead to greater understanding of how learning will happen for your children.
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