EDU 510 Unit 7 reflection blog

Learning is a broad topic; many think it only happens from childhood to early adulthood with formal education. There are different types of learning, and it can be a lifelong development/process. If you are an adult reading this post, age 28 or older (just throwing a number out there) what new things have you learned recently or within the last few years? "Learning is the acquisition of information, knowledge, and skills" (Cherry, 2022). Let us explore the benefits of lifelong learning and ways learning happens.

Adulthood comes with challenges, such as the busyness of life and responsibilities, but it doesn't mean that learning is impossible. Some other challenges adults face regarding education/learning are doubt, anxiety, and failure. The good news is learning can happen anytime and anywhere; it does not have to be formal. Let's describe lifelong learning. "It is a form of self-initiated education focused on personal development. It refers to the learning that occurs outside of a formal educational institute, such as a school, university, or corporate training"(Valamis. n.d.). There are different learning styles, such as visual, auditory, written, and kinesthetic. Knowing one's learning style can benefit his/her experiences and skills-building and maximize learning potential. It is also beneficial for educators to know and understand their students' learning styles. "By understanding what kind of learner you and/or your students are, you can now gain a better perspective on how to implement these learning styles into your lesson plans and study techniques" (Teach.com, 2020).

Lifelong learning is an ongoing process in which one can continue to educate themselves, improve and build new skills. Informal education refers to a lifelong learning process whereby individuals acquire attitudes, values, skills, and knowledge from the educational influences and resources in his or her own environment and from daily experience" (Definitions, n.d.). It can include hobbies, self-directed learning, team-building activities, and more. Learning how to use an Ipad or a smartphone through Youtube and knitting, baking, or fishing are examples and lifelong learning.

Some benefits of lifelong learning include renewed self-motivation, recognition of personal interests and goals, improvement in other personal and professional skills, and improved self-confidence ((Valamis. n.d.). Self-confidence, practical skills, and self-fulfillment are other skills that develop through lifelong learning. Ways to start learning new skills, especially when it comes to self-development, is by creating or beginning something of interest. For example, learn how to swim by taking a swimming class or purchasing a camera to start photography. Play board games to improve critical thinking skills or try archery for fun. Know your interests and create ways for development of new skills. For more information about lifelong learning, please view the video below.

As an educator, I must understand the value, the importance, and the different types of learning. As I reflect on my exploration of lifelong learning, I not only have a better understanding of the topic, but I also am more appreciative of not only formal education but also informal learning. After reading the article on lifelong learning, I realize that it is something I do regularly. I am constantly researching different topics to learn and share with my children and others who are interested. Being a lifelong learner has made me more knowledgeable, which will assist me in being more effective as a teacher.

To conclude, understanding the different learning styles and the benefits of lifelong learning has positively shaped and influenced me. Taking part in one's lifelong learning can bring new skills and growth. Learning can happen at any age and can be formal or informal.

References

Cherry, K. (2022, November 16). The Psychology of How People Learn. Verywell Mind; Verywellmind.

Definitions. (n.d.). European Youth Foundation.

Teach.com. (2020). Learning Styles. Teach.com.

Valamis. (n.d.).