The process of learning

Abstract

Learning to learn has become the buzzword of the moment. Many promote its importance, but only few show the direction. Whether done tacitly through experience or formally through educational channels, learning to learn is the main agenda in everyone’s life. Fundamental to this life-long learning process is the awareness of one’s cognitive and affective characteristics. One’s consciousness of the major assets and tendencies, together with a realisation of which personal factors impede or distract one from learning, are crucial in managing learning strategies. Awareness leads to better control. The objective of this chapter is to point out some of the individual characteristics that determine one’s progress in a subject or particular domain of knowledge. Learning is a complex process based on a wide range of personal characteristics and social interactions. Most of ‘what’ we think and to some extent ‘how’ we think are socially determined. One must also appreciate the intimate relationship that exists between thinking and feelings. Thinking, feeling and doing are fundamental ingredients of any learning experience. But while it is essential to be aware of the whole network of variables that contribute to learning, one should also focus on how particular aspects contribute to learning. A greater understanding of each of the components will help us understand better the whole process.