#2 Lifelong Learning
Among libraries, lifelong learning is one of those core values by which we shelve our books. So it makes sense that before we embark on this new online learning and discovery journey that we should take a few minutes to review a few habits that can assist in creating lifelong learners.
In the online tutorial, 7 & 1/2 habits of highly successful lifelong learners., Helene Blowers, who created the first 23 Things program, outlines the 7 & 1/2 habits of successful learners and describes a useful tool to work out what you need to learn - the Learning Contract.
Here are the habits she mentions:
Habit 1 – Begin with the end in mind
Habit 2 – Accept responsibility for your own learning
Habit 3 – View problems as challenges
Habit 4 – Have confidence in yourself as a competent, effective learner
Habit 5 – Create your own learning toolbox
Habit 6 – Use technology to your advantage
Habit 7 – Teach and mentor others
Habit 7 ½ – PLAY!
Exercise:
1. This tutorial has an audio component. If you don’t have headphones or speakers attached to your computer, you can still read along with each slide.
2. Open up the 7 & 1/2 Habits online tutorial and view the online tutorial.
3. As you watch and listen, write down which habit among the 7 & 1/2 that is easiest for you and which is hardest. You will use your personal blog (which you will set up next) to post your thoughts about lifelong learning.
Note: The 7 & ½ Habits online tutorial is 14 minutes in length. At the end of the tutorial Helene invited her staff to submit their comments and questions to the We Value Your Opinion! link. Please DO NOT use that link. It goes to the Public Library of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. The staff at PLCMC are generous spirits who are graciously sharing their Learning 2.0 modules, however, we don’t think they want to receive all our comments! Instead, send your comments to yourself via your regular email so that you can copy and paste them into the new blog that you set up for yourself next week. Really - email yourself a comment!
Have fun! If you haven’t jumped on board yet, it’s never too late to become a lifelong learner.
8 responses so far ↓
Meris Morrison // January 24, 2008 at 12:38 am
Lifelong learning bit was pretty basic. M
Teresa // January 24, 2008 at 3:10 pm
I agree with Meris. It was only toward the end that this tutorial seemed particularly relevant. I think that librarians in general are natural lifelong learners, so this presentation was preaching to the choir.
Kristen // January 26, 2008 at 11:38 am
Don’t mean to sound redundant, but I agree also! Libraries are an essential piece of lifelong learning…
Looking forward to more 2.0 -
Lee Appelbaum // February 1, 2008 at 2:14 pm
I agree that the tutorial was basic, as stated by the others; however, the inclination to continually take on new and potentially unsuccessful endeavors really does diminish with age (I’m discovering) and I like bing remonded of how enriching it can be. (As I go to my weekly Italian class to learn a new language!)
Rhonda // February 2, 2008 at 12:46 pm
It was basic, but still good. Sometimes it’s nice to start simple so you are not immediately overwhelmed. Lifelong learning is definitely a HUGE part of libraries, and I agree with the mention above, many of us who are drawn to this profession are inclined towards lifelong learning to begin. The contract is a good idea. It helps to 0rganize your thoughts and your time. Now, to go do it!
Helen // February 6, 2008 at 11:38 am
The tutorial was basic, but interesting and thought provoking. I think most of us use the 7-1/2 habits on a daily basis.
Debbie // February 6, 2008 at 1:24 pm
The tutorial was a good jumping off point. I tend to have a goal in mind but get sidetracked by the obstacles. The contract will help to keep me going.
mrsdg // February 6, 2008 at 2:22 pm
I agree that the tutorial was a good place to begin. The 7-1/2 habits are a clear way to talk about how we approach learning new things. The contract can hopefully keep me focused.
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