Open Education - Learning Philosophies

Learning Philosophies

Open education is motivated by a belief that learners desire to exercise agency in their studies. Specifically, people engaged in the learning process want: to conduct inquiries about potential topics of study; to have a hands-on educational experience instead of a strictly textbook-focused education; to take responsibility for their educational decisions; to experience the emotional and physical side of education; to understand how education and community are related; and, to have personal choice in the focus of their classroom studies.

These learners do a great deal for one another in promoting learning. Learning in a group environment or contributing to a group is beneficial to the learner. Collaborative group work has substantial benefits, such as increased participation by all of the group members, better understanding and retention of material, mastery of skills essential to success, and increased enthusiasm that can spur the participant on to independent learning. The philosophy of an open education centers on student learning and sees the teacher become the learning assistant. Teachers are to observe, guide, and provide materials for the learners. The teachers should facilitate not dominate the learning process. Open education is optimistic in the belief that the freedom of choice and student direction will promote a better quality of learning.

The basis for the learning philosophies of open education can be traced back to the work of educational reformer John Dewey and developmental psychologist Jean Piaget.