Obviously, there exists many philosophies of learning. The earliest theories were developed by thinkers such as Plato and Aristotle in as early as the latter 300 BC. Unquestionably learning has transcended many centuries, resulting in exposure to both influence and applied practice that has further shaped the philosophies of learning. However, to formulate one's personalized theory on learning, one must first ask the question – What is learning? Generally speaking, learning is the obtainment of knowledge through experience or academia. Similarly, psychologist's view learning as a process that results in the continued, or permanent change in behavior. Despite these seemingly black and white definitions, I have come to understand that the field of learning is anything but that. Learning is unique in the fact that it's dependent on memory for association. Consequently, memory is essential to learning. Therefore, the methods by which we attend to in order to present instruction have a significant impact on the overall outcome of one's learning and memory.
Personal Influences
In all pursuits of knowledge, Aristotle appropriately reminds us that we should continually be asking, what makes for human flourishing? My personal journey's in life has greatly influenced the philosophies of learning and memory to which I ascribe. As an individual who has overcome challenges in my ability to learn, as well as my ability to retain, the experience of learning has become increasingly intimate. My future intentions are to work within the field of applied psychology in the form of counseling and client advocacy. Of particular interest is Schizophrenia and creating an informed population. My personal theory of learning has been justified by both experience and reflection. Aristotle's philosophy is much alike my own, which states "the creation of a sound mind in a sound body" (Aristotle, Book II, p. 91). In my opinion; The human being has potential for all knowledge, however care must be taken in the human who seeks knowledge and the vessel where it resides.
Considerations
The human brain is unbelievably remarkable, capable of "controlling behavior through connections with the peripheral nervous system" (Gluck, 105). From birth to death, human development is an individualized process by which one's treatment of it can impact the outcome. In my pursuits as both a teacher and applied practitioner, my intentions should reflect as a form of advocacy for the individualized needs of those I work for (or with). In favor of balanced development first introduced by Plato and Aristotle, my methods exist with the belief that one's entire well-being should be in focus. Learning is greatly influenced by the experiences in which a person either lacks or possess. The future learning of individuals can be made with unequal impacts as a result of development. Furthermore, one's environmental influences can not only hinder learning, yet also be a potential resource for future learning. In the practice of both teaching, the physical and developmental needs of an individual are important considerations. In order to learn, the capacity and capability to acquire knowledge must be made possible through the physical considerations of the mind.
Transforming a vision. Learning doesn't just happen, and the extent to which an individual learns is reliant on both the learner, and the method of instruction; Method of instruction for purposes of this paper are life experiences, and passive or active instruction. As I've discussed, my personal experiences with learning have shaped my views. I believe the process by which one changes behavior and acquires new knowledge, can be transformed by the experience of learning itself. Likewise, I am confident that both learning and memory can be positively impacted by a practice that acknowledges both the relevant physical, and emotional needs of individuals. As parent's seek to create a balanced early childhood experience for their children, I advocate for a balanced learning process. In many ways, I feel my personal philosophy identifies with humanism to some degree.
Humanistic centered approach. Humanism is the study of the individual as a whole. The earliest humanists found interest in an individual's life-long development. In addition, humanist's found learning to be influenced by an individual's interests and passions. Of particular interest to me is the person-centered approach of humanism. As a teacher and counselor, my desire is to promote a humanistic practice. Not only do I feel strongly that these theories of learning and psychology are positive methods of intervention in the field, but I am confident that the long-term effects of a humanistic approach are invaluable. Humanistic learning allows for continued growth of the individual. Knowledge is not permanent, just as well, one's ability to retain knowledge is not always present. Humanistic learning permits individualized learning, which can grow with the individual. To add, Environmental manipulation to support the learner is better applied when the learner's needs are fully understood. This personalized approach is a view I greatly identify with, however philosopher's such as Carl Rogers have additional views on the practice of humanism.
Carl Rogers believed that for a "person to grow they need an environment that provides them with genuineness, acceptance and openness" (McLeod, 2014). In teaching, I whole-heartedly believe the practitioner should align all three of these variables with their practice. Carl Rogers believed that humans have tendency to self-actualize. Similarly, I believe in the human being's ability to achieve their ultimate potential. In my eyes, the individual is a plant that must be tended to in order to reach their maximum growth. To conclude, successful learning has many needs, as a provider I believe that practice of a person-centered foundation is vital in addressing the needs of the learner for maximum potential.
Teaching for memory. Epistemological psychologist Charle's Locke once stated that humans are a blank slate. Although I may not agree with his theories surrounding this statement, as they reference the philosophy of epistemology, I do find much usefulness in this phrase. As an educator and counselor, my intention is not only service the needs of the learner, but to create an atmosphere in which learning is possible. The recollection of information or the retainment of information can be influenced by a variety of variables. Information processing is a delicate and complex process that includes encoding, storage and retrieval of information. As we know, memory and learning are inter-twined. Knowing this, careful consideration of both must be facilitated. Many factors can cause interference of one's memory, causing interruptions in learning. The multi-stored memory model has provided much information on the storage of information. In teaching individuals, whether it be in the form of counseling or academic, I believe that one's method (or methods) of instruction should be attended to with importance. Additional to a humanistic practice of instruction and counseling, my individual philosophy on learning seeks to increase one's availability for potential knowledge. Theories of particular interest to me for active and passive teaching include connectivism, phase learning, feedback, and trial and error. I feel that the memory of the learner should be as important as one's teachings.
Philosophy of Practice. A personal philosophy is created through experience, idea and knowledge. My desire for the future students, or clients, is to provide a learning experience that makes a difference. The language of learning is not uniform, likewise there exists beauty within learning, as it has the flexibility to be possible for anyone. Humanism, or a person-centered focus, provides the best opportunity for the individual learner. I believe that believing in one's potential and providing the support for them to achieve both emotionally and physically, will drastically increase the results of the learner. As a teacher, I ask, what will allow this individual to flourish? Both the environment, and the intentions of the provider should be vital factors considered in enhancing the experience of the learner. One's experiences can influence or change the potential outcome. My intention is to manipulate my practice for the good of my students, or clients. Through humanistic teaching, knowledge of the student will enhance the results of learning and memory. By understanding the entirety of the learner, methods of instruction and support can be created and applied in the most effective ways. My philosophy aims to support students, or clients, in achievement of self-actualization, in order to shape the ultimate learning experience.