The Image of the Learner
Our changing work world requires lifelong learners who... |
OFTP Discussion
Teaching parents nurture lifelong learners: |
1. are self-directed, take the initiative to decide what they need to learn and how to go about learning it; |
Learning is fueled by curiosity.
- Help the learner determine and pursue personal interests.
- Ensure the enjoyment of learning is kept intact.
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2. can make connections, integrate their learning with their own beliefs and experiences and many aspects of the world around them; |
Parents are themselves learners.
- Share the beliefs and values of your family, its history and its goals.
- Show how these are played out and honoured each day.
Children, by nature, are eager to understand the world around them.
- Encourage personal reflection, and enable participation in a wide range of experiences.
- Model understanding of others and respect for their views.
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3. are creative, act on a vision; see beyond existing structures; are inventive and entrepreneurial; |
Learning is a worthwhile endeavour and takes time.
- Provide ongoing opportunities for exploring ideas and developing skills.
- Give a wide latitude of time, space, and resources for experimentation and growth.
The goals and accomplishments of others are motivating.
- Seek inspiration from innovators.
- Provide exposure in real life situations to models and mentors in a variety of pursuits.
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4. can manage their own learning, learn effectively alone and with others; |
The learning process is a continuum.
- Facilitate individual and cooperative efforts.
- Encourage the learner to join groups engaged in stimulating activities which involve people of varying ages in all walks of life.
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5. can solve problems, formulate problems, think creatively and critically, engage in systematic inquiry; |
People learn best when what they are doing makes a difference.
- Discuss areas that interest and intrigue the learner, and strengthen reasoning skills.
- Encourage questions, and access people and resources to aid in finding answers.
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6. are responsible citizens, who make a positive contribution at work, home, and the community; |
Parents want their children to mature and to be equipped for life.
- Pass on information and skills you consider most important through example and explanation.
- Support the development of life management skills.
Education is accomplished in our hearts, our homes, and our communities.
- Promote a sense of belonging and of responsibility toward others.
- Encourage willing contribution to the duties and chores of your family, and volunteerism in the community at large.
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7. have a positive attitude, demonstrate a positive sense of self and look for the best in people and situations; |
Each and every person has a unique blend of gifts, aptitudes and abilities and is inherently valuable as an individual.
- Discover and support your child's gifts and talents.
- Tailor your teaching to their needs, while encouraging their strengths.
Children thrive in a supportive environment such as that created by loving family relationships.
- Families as a whole, as well as the individuals within them, have strengths and needs.
- Nurture attitudes of respect and affirmation.
- Value day to day interactions within the family, and its special traditions.
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8. are effective communicators, use language and symbols effectively to express one's point of view while listening and working effectively with others. |
Language is a means to communicate, and a legacy.
- Dialogue with your children, listening actively and valuing their opinion.
- Instruct when necessary, providing frequent opportunities for feedback.
The voices of others, and what they say, are important, and discourse is a great opportunity.
- Engage in conversation with others of all ages, while going from place to place, and provide exposure to many forms of media.
- Using varied strategies, foster an appreciation of the written word, and build skill in its use.
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