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Defining ourselves in opposition to an idea

  • Writer: nwatsonjones
    nwatsonjones
  • Aug 22
  • 2 min read

I've been trying to work out how to define the concept of Self Managed Learning positively, using affirmative statements rather than just placing myself in opposition to traditional schooling, but while I was struggling with this concept, I rediscovered this table from Ian Cunningham's "Self Managed Learning and the New Educational Paradigm" and I think it does a really good job of explaining it!

Traditional Schooling

Self Managed Learning

Learning is organised by institutions such as schools and colleges

Learning can happen anywhwere and not always in an organised setting

Young people have to be controlled, otherwise they won't learn. Extrinsic motivation is required.

Young people naturally want to learn given the right support. Intrinsic motivation works.

Imposed content curriculum

Free - no imposition

Teacher is in charge

Learner is in charge, they work with an adult when they choose to

Imposed timetable which pupils must follow

No imposed timetable - students learn as and when they choose

Decisions made hierarchically

Joint decision-making between young people and adults

Teachers impose tests

Young people choose if they want to take tests

Formal relationships between teachers and students

Informal relationships, all on first name terms

Dress code or uniform

No dress code or uniform

Students required to be in fixed rooms. No access to toilets or refreshments without permission from teachers

The "rule of two feet" students permitted to go wherever they like on the site.

Learning is preparation for life, so at some point, learning stops and life starts

Learning occurs from birth to death

People who can memorise lots of facts are better than people who can't

Everyone is important and can contribute in different ways to their community

Homework is required

Learning can occur anywhere and there is no compulsory homework


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