Learning As a Way of Being . . . Part II: Systems Thinking

"A systems approach at least helps an investigator understand the problem is to discover the underlying connections and interdependencies (Vaill, p. 108)".

As I reflect on our current school system, this qoute made me think about my students and often their difficulty with  learning.  I think our students aren't learning as much as they can because often we as teachers aren't making the connections between disciplines and how what is being taught at school will be relevant later in thier lives. Not making the connections isnt't solely our fault for some fault does lie in the way the school system chooses to departmentalize the dsciplines.  I think if we took the notion of learning as a way of being as Vaill speaks of, our students would learn more, begin to love to learn and ideally become lifelong learners. 

As learners ourselves and specifically in this program, we can see the connections and interdependencies of what we are trying to accomplish.  We began the program May 8th with the end in mind by attending  graduation.  So when we sit to write a paper, read a book, or converse with a cohort member, we understand how everything we do plays a part in achieving our goal of graduating in May 2013.  Thinking about that goal keeps me/us motivated.  What would happen to our students enthusiasm for learning if we as educational leaders were able to convey this idea of looking at their education systemically (how it plays a vital role in their future) as opposed to something they just have to do?

Spiritually looking at the journey of life . . . We know God has a pupose for all of our lives.  When we met with Dr. Bawcom, he expressed to us how everything he did, every job he had, the career moves he made, the connections he made with people and how being at the right place at the right time has been  instrumental in him striving to fulfill the purpose God has for his life.  Even when he didn't understand why he was where he was in his life and/or career, he knew God had his life in His hands.  Meaning, through his connection with God, Dr. Bawcom grew to understand the connections and interdependencies of the steps of his life and how all aspects play a role in achieving his predestined purpose.  I think once we begin to see how all we do plays a role in achieving the purpose God has for us, the better teachers, learners and Christian leaders we will be.

Another qoute to think about . . .
"Learning systems thinking, therefore, is learning about oneself in interaction with the surrounding world.  We do not so much learn about a system as we learn in, through, and of a system (Vaill, p. 110)".


To answer Traci's question, . . .
When I tell people I am going back to school, most are excited for me and in awe.  I make sure to tell them I'm studying educational leadership, not mathematics.  If I were getting a doctorate in mathematics, I don't think I would have any hair!!! LOL!!!;-)