As a teacher I cherish those [few and far between] moments where students have transcended the conflict between learning and work. In these moments students are learning something to satisfy a natural curiosity, there motivation is intrinsic.
Skeptics would question the objective of flow. They wonder if our goal be the pursuit of mastery to the point of mindlessness, or should we continually challenge ourselves in the pursuit of new learning experiences. More importantly, can we do both?
Students can be inspired to learn by the sense of control and competence they receive. Students "own" knowledge, it is their intellectual property. All students like to gain respect or responsibility for their performance. Students are placed above novices as a result of their expertise. This placement validates student efforts and instills a sense of self-worth and pride in one's work. Students will soon find themselves motivated to do more and discover their true potential. In order for students to have a genuine "flow" experience, they must succeed according to universally accepted, objective standards for assessment.It is important that the "flow" experience provides measurable opportunities for this growth and the rewards associated with such growth are not marginalized.
"Flow" learning carries with it the belief that in the moment is that which is most important, relevant and true. while this experience is valid, we must teach students to balance such thinking with dispositions to be planful and reflective.
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2 comments:
I really like your question about if flow can be assessed, as it truly is a personal experience. I guess the key is also what you mentioned in terms of reflection which is the way we grow as individuals.
This begs the bigger question-- is school for collective societal growth or for the individual?
I liked your use of marginal text. I am a firm believer that "flow" can be found and exercised in any curriculum. Once it is achieved it is ongoing just like the river. When individuals claim their individual learning style and accept the challenge that they have encountered then they will meet the demands that society has on them and especially in the academic standards of evolving education.
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