Introduction

In this unit, we will explore the Learning Centered Paradigm of education. This paradigm provides the background framework for the learning design practices that we will be using in future units.

Learning Outcome for this Unit

After you have competed this unit, you should be familiar with the basic characteristics of the learning centered paradigm of education and able to relate the concept to adult education practices in your ministry context.

Ryan's Video Introduction for this Unit

Read

• "From Teaching to Learning - A New Paradigm for Undergraduate Education," Barr, Robert B., Tagg, John; Change, November/December 1995.
• Chapter 1 of Creating Significant Learning Experiences; Fink, L. Dee.

Watch

The animated excerpt from Sir Ken Robinson's Presentation to the RSA on Changing Paradigms.

You can access the full, non-animated, presentation here. (Optional).

Do

In the discussion area, write one post in which you address each of the following topics. Write as much as you need to address the topic thoughtfully. 400-700 words is a reasonable target for the length of the post.

1. React to the concept of the learning centered paradigm. Discuss one or two things you would like to affirm, challenge, or question about the learning centered paradigm.
2. Given these two paradigms, how would you describe the adult education paradigm in practice in your ministry context? Provide examples.
3. What significance does the learning centered paradigm have for you in how you approach your teaching and designing learning experiences?