When, for the second assignment in my first course of the Digital Learning and Leading program at Lamar University, I was given the task of creating a learning manifesto, my mind jumped to Ted Kaczynski, the Unabomber, and his sincere, if not disturbing and incoherent ranting. Who was I, I wondered, to write a manifesto on on anything? The more I considered the assignment, however, the more I appreciated the opportunity to put into words the beliefs and principles that I have formulated and been guided by during my 25-year career in education. I was further motivated by the assignment by something my professor said in an off-hand comment during a one-on-one conference. When talking about the work he and his colleagues are doing–and the work we, his students, are undertaking as well–he said, “I’m trying to change the world!” At first the statement struck me as a bit grandiose, but the more I thought about it, the more I was inspired by it. It revealed his unwavering passion for his work. And, if any endeavor has a chance to change the world, transforming the way people learn is surely one.
“You say you want a revolution…We all want to change the world.”
–John Lennon/Paul McCartney
Writing my learning manifesto allowed me to reflect on how I learn best, the experiences of teaching and learning I have enjoyed (and not enjoyed), and the data and research I have digested up to this point. It was eye-opening to learn that my experiences with success at learning (and teaching) coincided with an approach to learning that research is supporting–the COVA approach. A great example of this approach being used is the Blog you are reading now. This blog, an eportfolio, is allowing me to have Choice, Ownership, Voice, and Authenticity in how I demonstrate my learning.
Please take a moment to view my Learning Manifesto here:
Learning That Fits 