Learning is not attained by chance

Abigail Adams (although tight lipped above) contends that 'Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and diligence'. 

That contention is set up as an absolute - the 'not' and the 'must' indicate the polarities. But I don't think it's that easy.

I get what her intention is - students need some passion and application to learn something, but I can learn stuff without having that initial deliberateness she suggests.

For instance, I learn plenty of things by chance in my everyday interactions with students and staff at Hastings Boys' High School. All you have to be is awake to the possibilities and receptive to them when they come.

'We think differently at night' she told me once lying back languidly (Lawrence Ferlinghetti)

Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Informal learning and connection time can be under-rated!

George Couros wrote an interesting blogpost on this recently.

He addresses the informal learning that happens in face to face conventions and professional meetings. 

During my career I've attended my share of English teacher conferences, Deputy Principal conferences (NASDAP), Principal conferences (SPANZ and the Worldwide version of that in Edinburgh), and OneSchool Global conferences.

I miss those connection opportunities. I really do.

On-line professional learning has it's place but so does the human connection that happens when humans get together (formally and informally) to discuss stuff.

Will we get that back? I really hope so.