Learning In Christian Community

Three Paradigms of Learning

I learned about the relatedness between the three paradigms of learning, namely instruction, construction and co-construction. I understand that if the goal of learning is change, then I really cannot separate these three. I see them as a three legged table. If I take one leg off, the table will not stand. To have a strong and stable life of learning, I need all three. Each of these contributes to the overall growth of a total person – intellectually, emotionally and even spiritually. One paradigm is not more important than the others. Each has its own place and purpose in my overall learning experience.

I dare say that everyone of us experiences some “instruction” that is quite effective. I will start with my parents. I know that no parent is perfect, but most parents will try their best to teach their kids the art of living. They are the authority in our lives at least for the first few years. Granted that the focus during those times of learning is Dad and Mom. Some will concur that those times were not the most enjoyable times. But years later, I could admit that if it were not for those times, I will be worse off as individual. I learned many precious values, mannerisms, skills of life from my parents, teachers, pastors and others. Frankly I don't have problem with figures of authority. I recognize that some of them are not commendable. However God in His goodness has given me and all of us good figures of authority throughout our lives to teach us the good path. I think “instruction” builds a foundation in my life. It teaches me what and how to think about certain things. It forms my values in life. It equips me with a basic knowledge that I can expand later on through my own “construction”. It serves as a spring board to a greater and richer knowledge and experience. I am grateful for the many instructors God gives me along the way.

I consider myself self-motivated learner. It seems that I don't need external factors to push me to do self-study. However I notice that many times good “instruction” encourages me to dig in deeper and explore wider. I recognize that good “instruction” is often the basis of good “construction”. Whenever I learn something good from a good teacher, especially a teacher who not only knows his material but also walks his talk, I get into the mode of reflection. Not only will I keep thinking about he has taught me but I will remember his life example. I will ask my self this question, “...If it is good and it works in his personal life, what about applying it in my life?...I might experience the same thing he has..”. What I have heard and seen in my teacher further strengthens my desire to read further about the subject. I begin to want to find the answer for myself. I will want to make the discovery myself. I remember I was being taught about faith and love by a certain teacher in a Bible School. Though this happened nearly 20 years ago, I could still hear his teachings in my ears and see his walk in my mind today. Not only I still remember what I have learned from him, but till today I still do my “construction” on faith and love.

What about “co-construction”? I am convinced that “co-construction” is very much needed for maximized result in learning. It takes my learning further still. Though forming a group that is cohesive, like minded and with which I am comfortable takes time and effort, the benefits easily outweigh the challenges. I believe that such a group is a possibility if each member approaches it with the attitude of faith and humility – God can change us when we are humble enough to welcome His help. Through “co-construction”, the knowledge and understanding that I have acquired from “instruction” and “construction” are challenged. My team members will bring their various perspectives on the table. My views may be corrected but always for the better. My views may be correct, but will be deepened and widened. Group learning builds more accurate knowledge and the learners themselves. I may see something from just one angle alone. But in a group, I see things from different angles from my group mates. It's like climbing a mountain – If I climb alone and reach the top, I will get to see a certain view. But if someone else climbs the same mountain from a different side, he will get another view. Group learning is like a group of us climbing the same mountain from different sides. When we reach the top together, we will see not just “my view and “your view”, but a complete view, a 360 degree view. On top of that we all are changed in our character through the process. Our EQ will be developed further. My team members and I will learn to be gracious with our differences, to speak the truth in love, putting aside our personal interest for the sake of the common interest for the common glory of God.