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How Were ACOP Leaders Trained?
Respond in paragraph format to the following prompt(s):Learning can be categorized into three forms:- Formal learning – In-classroom learning with a formal curriculum – which leads to a diploma or degree.
- Non-formal learning or experiential learning – Discipleship programs, internships or specialized training or certification i.e. pastoral counselling or a coaching certification.
- Informal learning – Is self-directed learning such as reading & research.
All three forms of learning are valid – which form do you gravitate to and why?
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11 Replies
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There have been different seasons in my life, so I would not say that I gravitate towards any one of these three forms–although all three of these forms have been important in my life. As a young child, I was homeschooled for a period of time and consequently became quite adept at self-directed learning. This has definitely been an advantage, even as I have pursued advanced diploma and degree programs. Now, as a teacher, I am quite intentional about developing learner autonomy in students and giving them the tools, skills, and resources to do things on their own. This encourages people to become lifelong learners.
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I definitely gravitate towards Non-formal learning or experiential learning. I am a very hands on and situational learner, I like to witness how others do it and try for myself. Trial and error is the most productive way I learn as I will be most intentional and pay most attention when there is risk involved and when I am putting what I learn into action.
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Although I love biblical studies and gleaning from teachers and theologians, I think experiential learning because of how easily the lesson sticks. I’ve had some amazing classes and although I remember lots from my studies that has been useful to my faith, there is a lot of information that goes in one year and out the other after an exam or paper. Experience is easy to reflect on and remember because you learn from how it impacts you. Informal learning can be the same way, but personally it takes forever to hone a craft or take away something useful from something completely on my own. Experiential learning is the best way I effectively learn.
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I find I gravitate to all of these things, and am growing more and more fond of learning itself. I love formal learning not for the certification, but rather because it is well-directed and focused. In that sense, it is excellent for diving into topics that someone else has researched well. That being said, some of the most formational times in my formal learning experience have been personal in-depth research that was primarily self-directed. I also love hands-on things. There is no better way to truly understand what you are learning then by doing it, and there is no better way to understand some theological concept then by having to explain it to 5 year olds in a camp cabin or Sunday school. Because I am naturally driven and curious, I do a decent amount of self-study and research, but the way that I am wired leans closer towards formal learning and hands-on forms of learning.
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