Conversational learning

Defined by David Gurteen

Conversational Learning - form of learning that takes place through meaningful conversations and interactions between individuals

In order to open the conversation, I have decided to Work with the garage door open

The benefits of conversational learning

• The ability to ask questions.
  • Anecdote: When I was in high school, I noticed that a classmate of mine would always ask clarifying questions in class almost repeating the instructor’s words. I found it strange at first, did he not understand the material? Later, after talking with my best friend, they explained to me that this was my classmate’s form of understanding. Through asking questions, he was able to ensure he understood the material correctly and could correct any errors at the source.
  • 5 years later, I realized that I follow this same pattern in conversation. I’ll always provide a content summary or ask clarifying questions of what the person said.
    • Example based on a conversation with a friend:
      • E: I would like to use my time to develop skills and try and build things that I want to be able to do. I would love to learn to sew. I’d love to learn to speak Spanish. I’d love to keep doing pottery. Self-improvement in this very sort of learning way.
      • Z: That’s interesting that your self-improvement is much more tangible, skill-based rather than conceptual.
  • Overall, I find the ability to ask questions crucial to my own understanding of a topic. By reiterating a concept into my own words, the lesson can fit into my own schema of knowledge. Additionally, I may correct any learning errors before it is cemented into my brain.