Two ways of learning include assembly line learning (a set topic, set exercises, a sequence, a fixed, often indoors location that is seperate from the broader community) and learning by “observation and pitching in.”
We all know the first.
Traditionally, Learning by Observation and Pitching In (LOPI) is common in many Indigenous cultures in North and Central America. This type of learning is likely to involve much wider and keener levels of attention from the students.
The main characteristics are:
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The end goal for everyone, including the student, is to contribute to the group, not extrinsic reward from a teacher. The student also moves towards mastery.
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There is less talk, more observation and more doing. The participants observe the activity from the beginning, then where they can and where it is helpful, they start to “pitch in.”
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There is flexible leadership. The participants in the group who are at a higher level of mastery may lead the activity, but there is flexibility for others to pitch in and lead.
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The participant is learning to collaborate with participation and consideration, as well as learning the skills or attributes involved
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Learning involves wide, keen attention, in anticipation of being able to contribute to the group.
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Communication is based on a shared reference – there is a lot of non-verbal communication and any verbal communication can be based around the task at hand, or can include stories or past lessons around the task
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Assessment includes appraisal for the success of the amount of support provided for the learner, as well as appraisal of the learner’s shift towards mastery.
This type of learning is by definition experiential, and incorporates members of the society of all ages and backgrounds, if they want to contribute in this type of task.
In contrast, Assembly-Line learning seeks to control learners’ attention, motivation, and behaviour in settings seperate from contributions to the broader community.
“Pitching In” is a cornerstone of the Access Potential Academy and an essential part of true development. If you are starting to feel that to get to the next level you would benefit from a tribe of people to help you get where you want to go, then I’d love to hear from you.
