‘Learning to Learn’ in the Age of AI

“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” — John Dewey

In the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), where change is the only constant, these words by John Dewey carry profound meaning. No longer does the sole responsibility of teachers lie in imparting knowledge. Today, our task extends to cultivating students into adaptable, lifelong learners equipped with the most crucial skillset: Learning to Learn.

Learn to Learn: A Meta-Skill for Lifelong Learning

Learn to Learn is a powerful meta-skill, the understanding of our individual learning mechanisms and the implementation of effective strategies to amplify this learning. This core ability is a guiding compass that fosters a lifetime of curiosity, growth, and adaptability, even in the rapidly evolving world of AI.

Understanding Learning Styles: A Path to Personalized Learning

We can trace the roots of learning to learn back to Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, which emphasizes the diverse learning preferences of students. In the context of a history lesson, some students might flourish by reading about events, while others might thrive through auditory learning like podcasts or visual representations like documentaries. Still, others might prefer kinaesthetic learning, such as role-playing historical events. Encouraging students to explore these different learning pathways can help them pinpoint their optimal learning styles, thus improving the effectiveness of their learning journey.

Harnessing AI in the Search and Evaluation of Resources

In an era where information is only a click away, teaching students how to find and evaluate resources is paramount. We can utilize AI technologies to instruct students on effective usage of search engines, and to assess the credibility of diverse websites and resources. As emphasized by developmental psychologist Jean Piaget, learning is an active process of discovery, and AI can be instrumental in promoting this explorative mind-set.

Adopting Effective Learning Strategies: A Key to Mastering Content

AI can also aid in fostering effective learning strategies. For example, a math studying session can be enhanced with AI-driven tools promoting spaced repetition and active recall. By offering reminders to review material over time and flashcards prompting question-driven learning, AI can provide scaffolding for students to reach their potential, resonating with Lev Vygotsky’s concept of the “Zone of Proximal Development.”

Promoting Metacognition and Growth Mindset: Foundations of Lifelong Learning

Finally, teachers should encourage metacognition — reflecting on one’s thinking processes. AI can facilitate this through feedback mechanisms, allowing students to identify their strengths and areas of improvement after tasks or projects. This reflective practice, coupled with a growth mindset as described by psychologist Carol Dweck, cultivates a mentality that views challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles. AI can support this by providing personalized and continuous feedback that values effort and progress over results.

Conclusively, in the dynamic landscape of AI, teachers’ primary role is to nurture lifelong learners. By guiding them to understand their learning styles, harness AI in finding and evaluating resources, adopt effective learning strategies, and promote metacognition and a growth mind-set, we set them up for lifelong success.

“Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.”

Let’s teach our students to learn, equipping them with skills not just for today, but for a lifetime…

About the author: Gayethri Mote is a teacher, educator and an expert at Innerscore on the various Learning Skills.