Natural Born Learner 1
(Monday)
Context:
In school, much of what, how, and when students learn is decided for them, and progress is often measured through grades. For some students, this can affect confidence and motivation, especially if learning doesn’t happen at the same pace as their peers.
Students who learn differently or need more time may begin to see grades as a measure of their ability. It’s important to understand that learning at a different pace or in a different way is not a personal failure.
Why it’s important: Some students begin to doubt their ability to learn or develop a negative view of learning. But learning is a lifelong process—especially in the workplace—and it’s important to remember that you are a natural learner. You’ve already proven this by learning many skills throughout your life.
Employees who show they can learn, adapt, and pick up new skills, technologies, and ways of working will always be in high demand.
Primer Questions
How do you view school? Do you enjoy learning there?
What subjects do you enjoy learning about? Which ones don’t interest you?
Do you think what you’re learning in school will be useful to you in the future, both at work and in life?
Write down your answers and observations in your journal.
“
Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere in life.
”
― Chinese proverb.
Remember: You were born curious.
Like all children, you were probably constantly asking questions as a child—“Why is the sky blue?”, “How do fish breathe?”, “What are stars made of?”
When young people enter school and are taught subjects they are not naturally interested in, they often begin to tune out, lose interest, and gradually lose their natural curiosity. It might take some time, but by the end of middle school, many students become disengaged in the classroom.
Stay curious. You can do this by asking yourself, “How can I use what I’m learning at school in my day-to-day life?”
Introductory Video
The school system can sometimes encourage a “learning for grades” mindset, where the main goal becomes earning good scores on assignments, projects, and report cards.
Be honest with yourself: Are you focused mainly on getting good grades, or do your grades reflect your interest in what you’re learning? There’s an important difference between the two.
Interests
In your journal, write down three things you are very interested in.
Are any of them related to subjects you study in school? Will any school subjects help you pursue these interests?
List one or two skills or activities that were once difficult for you but are now easier.
What motivated you to keep learning those skills or activities, even when they were challenging at first?
Motivation and Achievement
Curiosity and interest can serve as motivators in academic settings, either directly or indirectly.
Research suggests that curious people often become deeply focused and engaged when they are doing something interesting or meaningful. This kind of focus can make learning feel more rewarding and enjoyable.
-www.cambridge.org
You are already amazing.
By recognizing that you’ve already learned and accomplished some truly fantastic things, you can maintain the belief that learning comes naturally to you. Don’t forget that some of the things you take for granted now are skills that are difficult to learn and master! Watch the following video.
Metacognitive Goals
At the beginning of the week, pay attention to how you feel about learning. Do you mostly connect learning with grades and tests, or do you enjoy learning even outside of school? Notice what influences your attitude toward learning.
You may find that your feelings about learning change depending on where or how you’re learning. The goal is to understand your perspective so you can keep a positive mindset. Remember, you were born to learn.
Write your reflections from this activity in your journal.
Thought of the day.
You have tremendous potential. Probably more than you give yourself credit for.