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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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16 Replies
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I am a big believer in learning as much as you can from any and all sources. I really do enjoy all types of learning, formal, informal, and non formal. I think that each of them is valid, each has a place of vital importance for leaders, as I think it is helpful to be familiar at the very least with these sources and able to help and resource those we lead in the way that they need. If I were to gravitate towards one method right now though in this life season it would be informal and self directed, but I also like to find ways to bounce what I am learning off of others so that my self-directed learning doesn’t become insular and self serving, making sense to me and me alone.
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I actually believe that the most effective form of learning in by far experiential learning. You can read things on pages all day long about how to disciple someone, but it will never teach you as effectively as actually learning to do it with someone. Maybe I’m wrong? Not to say that formal is not helpful, it certainly is, and for some people more than others of course. I love formal learning, processing through what I believe on papers and letters is one of my favorite things to do. But I find that I’m truly changed and make adjustments based on things that happen in real life.
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I gravitate more towards non formal learning or experiential learning. I find I grasp concepts much easier when I have a bit more control over the learning and can learn as I do or watch someone doing it. I like being able to choose courses or programs as I feel that they would benefit my needs and my ministry needs as well.
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In my life, I am thankful to have experienced all three of these different ways of learning at different points. But, I would say the type of learning I most naturally gravitate to is non-formal learning or experiential learning. I think this is because I learn a lot when I am forced outside of my comfort zone or outside of something I already know I have to try and figure it out and learn how to do the task I need to do. I also enjoy learning in this method more than in a formal or informal style of learning.
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