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Adult Learning Described

Although creating a timeline was a useful tool for capturing learning opportunities I might otherwise have forgotten about (as was the Learning Inventory Worksheet), I found it somewhat awkward as an overall tool for recording my adult learning experiences.  A few of my learning experiences fit into very specific niches in time, however, many have occurred gradually over time as part of a lifestyle of learning.  Where on a timeline does one place, for instance, habit of reading regularly? This difficulty was, in itself, a source of insight regarding my learning experiences and preferences -- not to mention what may, perhaps, be a deficit in recordkeeping skills!  Much of my learning has been fluid.  I couldn't tell you when I "learned to cook"; I simply am still continually learning to cook.  My skill increases and knowledge expands, but it was not a one-time event.  Perhaps I first heard of modern home birthing in 1996 or 1997, but my knowledge, familiarity, and experi
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Adult Learning Timeline

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Personal Learning Network

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I am, to be honest, not a fan of the "personal learning network" concept.  I find it jargony and confusing, but I gather that (in everyday language) what is being asked of us is that we define the tools, routines, and resources we personally use for learning. As a highly independent learner, I prefer resources I can access on my own terms.  Therefore, when it comes to networking, my primary sources of "interaction" are actually books and other written materials I can read and then "talk back to" in my own head.  When I need further help or to bounce ideas off of someone else, Facebook, bulletin boards, "ask an expert" sites, etc. are my preference, so I can ask whatever I need to ask, but not be obligated to participate regularly in small talk. My tools are simple, as well.  I consider myself an "information collector," so I have a large number of books, browser bookmarks, and digital files organized into folders by topic.  This all
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A Solid Performance

My proudest accomplishments in recent memory are lengthy public Facebook posts -- essentially the equivalent of blog posts -- that were particularly well-received.  These posts were intended to share information or insight about important topics.  When multiple people find them adequately well-stated to be worth sharing, I consider that a job well done. The skills behind such posts have been gradually developed over the years.  I have a natural inclination toward bluntness, which is beneficial in producing a willingness to speak up when needed.  However, counter-balancing skills such as diplomacy/tact have been hard-won through years of foot-in-mouth moments. Critical thinking skills, the ability to write clearly, and the ability to build a solid, logically-valid argument also serve well in these settings.  In these skill areas, talent also plays a role.  Natural aptitude provides a strong start.  Years of practice hones and expands the skills even further.  Recognizing these as a
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