Becoming a Lifelong Learner

Prepared by Homeyra Sadaghiani, College of Science- Physics & Astronomy Department

Introduction

Rapidly changing technology, disrupted work and learning environments, the emphasis on individual learning plans, obtaining micro-credentials, passion and life satisfaction and more requires us to become independent and lifelong learners. This module provides an opportunity for students in First Year Experience course to learn how and practice becoming lifelong learners. Students will select a topic of interest, from Linkedin Learning, prepare a two weeks independent study plans, carry out their plans, and prepare formal presentations. The presentations should be in a form of eight- minutes long recorded video or professional conference poster.

Acknowledgements: Module Created by Homeyra Sadaghiani Via First Year Experience Faculty Community at Cal Poly Pomona

Learning Objectives

Discuss the importance of becoming an independent life-long learner
Utilize LinkedIn Learning resource available at My CPP
Propose a topic of interest to study using self-learning strategies
Design personal calendars to schedule a two-week study plan
Exercise time management techniques to complete the required work timely
Prepare a poster presentation and a recorded podcast to share their learning outcomes

The above objectives will satisfy the FYE Student Learning Objectives SLO 1: Students will use relevant resources and information literacy concepts to enhance professional and personal success.

Module Timelines and teaching strategies

This module is designed for two to three class meetings (4 to 6 hours) which include some in class student work while instructors give just in time feedback. This module can take longer depending on whether students will present their work during the class or online.

Course Content and Schedule

Day 1

Before class:

Reading: assignment: Why Lifelong Learning is the Only Option.

During class:

Introduction& Mini Lecture: Why Become a More Effective Lifelong Learner.

Project Planning Activity: Student follow the Step-by-Step Guideline, choose the topic, estimate required time, and schedule that on their colander using the provided Handout Calendar Template. Engage in a class conversation and work on your study plan and receive feedback from peers and instructor. By the end of the first class you are supposed to have your study plan and calendar complete.

After class:

Assignment: The students will follow their scheduled to study, watch the videos, read related readings, take notes, and complete the course assignment based on you plans and timelines.

Deliverables: An initial draft outline of the presentation.

Day 2

Before class:

Reading: assignment: How to Become a Lifelong Learner.

During class:

Mini Lecture: How to Become a More Effective Lifelong Learner

Peer Review Activity: During the second-class meeting students will share and receive feedback from their peers and instructor on the outline and their work thus far.

After class (2 weeks period recommended):

Assignment: Follow their scheduled of study to complete course assignment based on their plans and timelines.

- - The students will finalize the outlines of poster presentation with feedback received during the class and submit.
  - The students will prepare their posters (see examples here).

Deliverables: Students will finalize the posters with finishing touches and upload on blackboard.

Day 3

Before class:

Practice: The students practice and record a 4-5 minutes audio/video presentation of their posters.

During class:

Students present their posters:

- - Students will present their recorded presentation (5 minutes maximum) in alphabetical order by last names.
  - Students should be prepared to answer questions about their own presentation & ask others questions about their presentations.
  - Students will complete the Poster Assessment Rubrics for each presentation

After class:

Students will complete the project self-reflection essay on their experience doing this project. The questions they will respond could include:

- - What are the areas of strength for you as a lifelong learned?
  - What are the areas you could work on to strengthen?
  - What did you like the most? What was the most challenging aspects of your project?

Additional Resources

Model after others (see The Mission)
Read more on developing self-directed learners
Listen to a series of TED Talks on lifelong learning
Why Lifelong Learning is the Only Option
How to Become A Lifelong Learner

Poster Assessment Rubrics
FYE on Time Management