In our world, there’s a lot of emphasis on the end goal:
- We have to take tests
- We have to turn in projects and present them
- We have to show that we’ve read a certain number of pages, written a certain number of words, or memorized a certain amount of information
All of these are examples of “products” of our learning, and they can be important.
But even more important is your learning “process.”
Process is the actual experience
Unlike the product, like a test, the process has to do with actually being in the middle of something. Although you will probably have to pass tests in your math classes, you will spend much more time learning with your teacher and other students. That’s the process.
Process changes your brain
Whether you’re learning a new gymnastics move or studying physics, the process of learning has to do with growing connections in your brain. The process of learning is actually physically changing your brain.
Depending on how you do it,
Process can be…
…fun …scary …painful …exhilarating …funny …social …independent …creative …messy
But no matter how we try,
Process can’t be…
…measured …standardized …forced …shoved into your brain by someone else
And if you really want to learn,
Process should be…
…enjoyable for you!
This is the weird thing about process. If you stop focusing on product (oh, no, I’ll never pass that math test!) and start focusing on process (OK, this is a whole, new weird concept to me) you’ll be happier.
And people who are happier learn more. (Really!)
A focus on product often produces…
…stress …less learning …shallower learning that doesn’t stick …working to please other people …less fun for you
Focus on process and you can be…
…relaxed …creative …curious …stimulated… …and successful!