Embrace Organic Learning; Traditional Tools for Modern Minds
Organic learning is identifiable on both the end of the teacher and the student. For the student, organic learning occurs when there is genuine curiosity about the subject matter, and answers are sought after, acquired, and understood. For the teacher, organic learning means employing natural teaching methods that encourage curiosity in the student. Markerboards and chalkboards are tools for effectively displaying information, regulating the pace information is delivered to the student, and stimulating effective collaboration.
Proper Display
The visual display provided by traditional writing surfaces is organic in its own right. Visible and clear handwriting helps students to identify with the displayed material. By watching the instructor complete the work on a surface in front of them, students will benefit from the humanistic inquiry involved in using the steps to achieve the desired goal. By seeing another person go through the process, it is easier to pick out what you might not understand about the process or any specific step, leading to the organic cognitive development of the student.
Pace Regulation
In addition to the simplified presentation of manual processes, markerboards, and whiteboards force the instructor to regulate the pace at which they deliver information. Using modern tools, such as screens with PowerPoint presentations, allows educators to move through information more quickly. While this increases the efficiency of a teacher’s output, it may not be the most effective tool for cognitive development. By providing the information by hand on a traditional writing surface, the teacher can not rapidly meet their quota. However, students can register the information as provided and then analyze the finished collection of material on the board. Pace regulation is a pivotal aspect of organic learning, as the student is disadvantaged when learning at an unregulated, unnatural pace.
Collaboration
The common theme between everything discussed is that traditional tools make things simple. Markerboards and chalkboards are simple tools that don’t distract from the complexity of the material itself. These tools provide a space for interactivity and collaboration that enhances problem-solving. By utilizing the same tools their instructors used to present information, students can put themselves in the shoes of the instructor and better conceptually grasp the material.
Final Remarks
Newer doesn’t always mean better. Traditional products such as markerboards offer an organic environment of learning growth for students to excel in their studies. The roles of presentation, pace, and collaboration are pivotal components of the academic experience. These practices are exponentially more efficient when employing an organic teaching method that allows the student time to comprehend the material, an avenue to replicate it, and ample time to make and learn from mistakes.
