In pedagogy, firsthand learning means learning from direct experience. The first documented use of the term was by Mark St. John of Inverness Research Associates,[1] in a lecture at the Workshop Center at the City College of New York.

Firsthand learning makes use of a learner's innate curiosity and desire to investigate real phenomena, by providing them with opportunities to learn for themselves using the analytical abilities of their own minds, and connect with the world around them.[2] It involves close engagement with the immediate environment.[3]

Firsthand learning is an inquiry process that generates questions for subsequent investigations. Learners may also record their observations for analysis and interpretation,[4] and communicate the results of this investigative process. Sharing evidence and discussing findings with others makes learning a social process.[5]

References edit

  1. ^ St. John, Mark (September 1999). "Wait! Don't Tell Me!: The Anatomy and Politics of Inquiry" (PDF). 1998 Catherine Molony Memorial Lecture. The City College Workshop Center, NY. Retrieved September 23, 2012.
  2. ^ "Firsthand Learning: The Role of Knowledge Management Approaches". www.firsthandlearning.org. Retrieved 2023-03-13.
  3. ^ "Professional Development and School Capacity. Accredited High School Diploma". excelhighschool. Retrieved 2023-03-14.
  4. ^ Dewey, John (1910). How We Think. Lexington, MA: D. C. Heath. ASIN B004QOA876. Reprinted, FQ Books, December 2010
  5. ^ Barbara Rogoff; Ruth Paradise; Rebeca Mejia Arauz; Maricela Correa-Chavez; Cathy Angelillo (2003), "Firsthand Learning Through Intent Participation", Annual Review of Psychology, 54: 175–203, doi:10.1146/annurev.psych.54.101601.145118, hdl:10400.12/5953, PMID 12499516