The Power of Thinking about Thinking & Learning Journals: with David Loewen (Doctor of Education)
Feb 2, 2024
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David Loewen, a writer and Doctor of Education, discusses the shortcomings of traditional education, the importance of thinking about thinking, learning journals, bears, Australia, and creativity. They explore the concept of learning journals, personal development, emotional intelligence, conflict management, and the power of sharing authentic writing. They also touch on the concept of self and bias in learning journals, encounters with wildlife, freemium products, and free educational email courses.
Learning journals enable self-reflection, personal growth, and goal-setting.
Learning journals should incorporate diverse perspectives and cultural contexts for a more inclusive practice.
Engaging in critical self-reflection through learning journals promotes empathy, expansive mindset, and positive societal change.
Deep dives
Learning Journals: A Tool for Personal Development
Learning journals can take many forms, whether it's pen and paper, digital notes, or even blogging. They allow individuals to reflect on their experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Prompts like 'What did I learn today?' and 'How do I feel about it?' can guide the journaling process. By keeping a learning journal, individuals can track their personal growth, set goals, and unlearn harmful behaviors or beliefs. It's a way to actively engage with one's own thoughts and experiences, gaining self-awareness and fostering personal development.
The Influence of Western Thinking on Learning Journals
While learning journals are a valuable tool, it's important to recognize that they can be influenced by Western thinking and biases. Many popular self-help gurus and influencers originate from Western countries. However, learning journals can be adapted to different cultural contexts and values. In collectivist societies, the focus may be more on community and interconnectedness rather than individual self-reflection. It's important to consider and broaden our sources of inspiration and perspectives, exploring ideas and practices from different cultures and regions.
Expanding the Boundaries of Learning Journals
Learning journals can transcend the boundaries of individual reflection and personal development. They can incorporate diverse perspectives and experiences. For example, in indigenous communities, learning journals can be tied to the land, oral histories, and community interactions. They can document the connections between language, culture, and identity. Learning journals have the potential to bridge multiple knowledge systems and challenge dominant narratives. By embracing a broader understanding of learning journals, we can deepen our understanding of the world and our place within it.
The Power of Pausing and Questioning Biases
One of the greatest benefits of learning journals is the opportunity to pause, question, and challenge our biases. By engaging in self-reflection and actively listening to different perspectives, we can broaden our understanding and enhance empathy. It's important to recognize the influence of language, culture, and external systems on our thinking. Engaging in critical self-reflection allows us to cultivate a more inclusive and expansive mindset. By continuously questioning and expanding our perspectives, we can contribute to personal growth, intercultural understanding, and positive societal change.
The Power of Being Alone with Your Thoughts
Taking time to be alone with our thoughts without distractions from social media, TV, or other forms of input can be beneficial. The idea of keeping aside 10 minutes a day to reflect on our thoughts and experiences is explored in the podcast. It is suggested to engage in self-talk and have conversations with ourselves as a form of journaling. By creating space for our thoughts, we can gain insights, think more productively, and even solve problems. The practice of being alone with our thoughts can also help with insomnia and anxiety, providing a sense of calm and clarity.
The Importance of Starting a Learning Journal
Starting a learning journal is recommended as a way to reflect and gain insights. The podcast emphasizes the power of simply starting and not getting caught up in the need for consistency or productivity. Writing in a learning journal helps to capture thoughts, emotions, and reflections, and it provides a space to explore ideas and be curious. The act of writing with a pen and paper is encouraged due to the unique relationship it creates. The podcast also mentions the benefits of unstructured journaling and the value of embracing messiness and embracing the writing process without strict rules or structures.
A fascinating interview with David Loewen from Canada. David is a writer, thinker and Doctor of Education. He's also the co-founder of Humanity Academy, a social enterprise committed to empowering individuals by unlocking the doors of knowledge, wisdom, and self-awareness.
David and I talked about:
The Humanity Academy
The shortcomings of traditional education systems
The importance of thinking about thinking
Learning journals
Bears, Australia, and Creativity
I'm fascinated by David's work. I hope you'll find this interesting too.
