connecting the unlearned

We are all entering a field under assumptions and pretenses that no longer apply. This thought is the corner stone that our ENG 307 class is building off of. The application of the technology is a concept that we readily grasp, the problems that we are encountering are more of a technical nature. The Will Richards’ blog posting of the 10 items that educators must unlearn is a tool that can help us rewire our brains and help us flush out some of the afore mentioned assumptions

“unlearning the idea that learning itself is an event” harmonized perfectly with all of the examples that Thomas Friedman uses illustrate the factors flattening the globe. He pulls from various businesses how they have innovated to stay ahead of the game. Wal-Mart’s ordering system based, ordering in actually what is going out of the door, can be seen as a way to control inventory: but there is an undercurrent that reminds us that the continuous process of education can not be ignored. The ever-changing business is just that a state of flux where if systems are not improved upon, become stagnant, then capitol ceases to flow.

To “unlearn the strategy that collaborative work inside the class is enough and understand that cooperating with students from around the globe can teach,” is exactly what UPS as the insource with other companies. Again, most of what Richards telling future teachers is already being employed in the business world. Having Nike concentrate their efforts on building a better sneaker while the boys in brown worry about supply chaining is collaboration at its best. In the classroom this can be seen in group work where the members’ strengths guide the partners through there weaknesses while side stepping the frustration of not knowing how to do something.

“To unlearn the practice that teaches all students at the same pace,” brings a higher quality of education into the lives of students. This brings enjoyment to the learning process by taking the high school student to the level that both Will Richards and Thomas Jefferson sought that of a life long learner. The benefit of that to us in the education field is a given whereas other would only see the value once their lives are enriched in such a manner.