What is your favorite non-traditional way to learn and what are you currently learning outside of school? by Raquel

What is your favorite non-traditional way to learn and what are you currently learning outside of school? by Raquel - September 2024 Scholarship Essay

Learning is a life-long process that begins from the moment we are born. As our brains begin to develop, and our bodies grow, we begin to experience the world around us through our senses: hearing, touch, smell, seeing, and taste. Consequently, we begin to make sounds, then syllables, and words to learn how to communicate with our environment. Additionally, we are simultaneously creating experiences that allow us to continue in our growth and development across the life span. In our current culture, there are traditional and non-traditional methods of learning, and I will focus on describing my non-traditional style of learning as well as provide insight into my own processes outside of the typical classroom setting.

Non-traditional ways of learning can include visual, auditory, written form, and experiential. According to a study on Journal of Postgraduate Medicine, (2014) states: "most people learn best with a combination of styles." On a personal note, I prefer to learn visually by watching videos, auditory by listening to podcasts , and experiential which is a hands-on approach. An example is when I am in the softball field, there are life skills such as team building, perseverance, discipline, accountability, and self confidence that I have learned outside of the traditional classroom. Furthermore, the mental and emotional processes that occur during training and games are invaluable lessons that continue to build my character and overall sense of self.

Lastly, there are no right or wrong ways of learning, one has to adapt to a learning style that fits them the best. Traditional methods of learning offer a structured approach which works well with some learners. However, non traditional methods of learning have become more acceptable in academia and our culture, as learners begin to thrive in this setting. On a personal note, I believe using an eclectic approach to learning by using traditional and non-traditional methods can only help me develop as an individual.