« Free People Read Freely | Main | Everything is Illuminated »
October 17, 2007
Heutagogy -- My New Favorite Word
I love when you hear about a totally new concept that you can identify with. Today, one of my "Facebook friends," Chris Hambly, linked to this new-to-me concept of heutagogy. The more I read about it, the more fascinated I am by it's implications.
The quick wikipedia definition is: "Heutagogy is the principle of teaching based upon the concept of truly self-determined learning. It is suggested that heutagogy is appropriate to the needs of learners in the twenty-first century, particularly in the development of individual capability, individualised learning and independent learning using the internet-based systems including multimedia, virtual learning environments, online assessments and social software...It is a learning theory based on concept of self determined learning fostering independence in adult learning. It is a learner centered theory of learning emphasizing that adults learn when they are ready. It assumes that people have the ability to learn continuously throughout life and in real time. This is accomplished through various interactions with one's environment."
How does this apply to life in a library? In the past, the job of a librarian was to "give out" information. There are still some people who expect that and it remains part of our job. However, the expectations of librarians have expanded exponentially in direct relation to our use of technology, the availability of information and the role of the internet in our daily lives.
People don't just want "the facts, ma'am," but they want to know how to access the information themselves, from home or even from the road, if possible. This fantastic article talks about "knowledge sharing" as opposed to " knowledge hoarding."
So, as we adjust to the role of the "new librarian," we struggle to model and teach flexible learning (if one search isn't successful, try another), and increasing the capability, not just the knowledge of the patron. I'm writing as a librarian, but this also applies to our roles as parents. Don't just impart knowledge -- teach your children how to learn. What better gift can you give to your child than the ability to be a self directed, capable learner?
Posted by Michele at October 17, 2007 9:54 AM
Trackback Pings
TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://www.nassaulibrary.org/cgi-bin/mt/mt-tb.cgi/375
Comments
Hey Michele.
Delighted to have turned you onto something new, and enjoyed your article. In the context you indicate it makes so much sense, teach a woman how to fish she will eat forever.
:)
Chris
Posted by: Chris Hambly at October 17, 2007 1:30 PM