Your autobiography as a learner
Your autobiography as a learner
We’ve begun to see just how influential our own learning experiences can be - shaping not only our beliefs about what learning is, but also how we approach teaching. By reflecting on these experiences, we gain valuable insight into the assumptions that underpin our practice and open up possibilities for growth and development as educators. In earlier topics, we explored a variety of reflective approaches, laying the foundation for a more critical, intentional stance toward our teaching.
As part of this journey toward becoming a critically reflective practitioner, Stephen Brookfield offers a valuable framework that encourages us to look at our practice through four distinct lenses: our own experiences, the perspectives of our students, the views of our colleagues, and the wider theoretical literature. In doing so, we can develop a more nuanced understanding of our teaching.
Brookfield (1998, p. 198) also highlights the importance of reflecting not just intellectually, but at a "visceral, emotional level"—acknowledging the cultural and psychological barriers that may inhibit participation in learning. This deeper level of reflection challenges us to consider how inclusive and responsive our teaching really is, and where there may be room to evolve.
Activity: Your autobiography - forum
(you may wish to use this activity as part of your OTJ evidence)
For this next task, we would like you to write your autobiography as a learner, reflecting on the experiences you had.
In no more than 500 words, we would like you to post your writing addressing the following:
- What learning experiences have you had that affected you at the "visceral, emotional level"?
- Is there room for emotion in clinical education?
- Have you ever felt culturally or psychologically inhibited from participating?
- How do we enhance participation?
Engaging with others:
As you read a peer’s learning autobiography, consider the emotional or cultural themes that resonate with you. Respond by highlighting a moment that felt familiar or thought-provoking.
You might respond with:
- “Your story reminded me of a time when I felt…”
- “I hadn’t thought about that aspect of learning before. Your post helped me consider…”
- “You mentioned X - how do you think that shaped how you now approach learning or teaching?”
