LEARNING LIFE HISTORY AN UNTAPPED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE Ellen

LEARNING LIFE HISTORY: AN UNTAPPED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE Ellen Scully-Russ, Ed. D. GW Academy of Distinguished Teachers April 7, 2915

Tapping Biographical Resources • Responsible for life plan • Transitions & intentional learning • Take a different attitude towards ourselves Identity Project Societal Implications • Expansion of biographical options • Intentional learning takes many forms • Complex learning life histories • Validation of options to enable new biographical action • Build biographical competence Role of Educator

Influences European Life History & Biographic Research Education Biography Dewey’s Progressive Organization of Subject Matter

Life History: Biographicity (Alheit, 2009) Surplus Meaning ctions Life Constru Subjectivity, Sense of Self, Dispositions Hidden Reference s Societal Marco. Structures & Conditions

Dewey’ Progressive Order of the Subject Every experience is a moving force Find material for learning within experience & capability of learners past future prese Present problems that nt stimulate new ways of observation and judgment and make new demands on intelligent use of memory Richer, more organized form of experience.

Education Biography (Dominice, 2000) “…. An approach to helping adult learners understand what they already know, how and why they learned in the past, and what motivates them to pursue new educational opportunities. …. Through the process of talking in groups and writing their histories participants can not only reflect on their learning experiences, but enhance their critical thinking, collaborate in their own educational journeys, and build their awareness of such situational influences as family, work, and community”.

Thank You for Your Interest