There are many similarities and differences in what other cultures perceive as learning. As an adult learner, I believe that learning should occur regardless of setting. According to Merriam, Caffarella, & Baumgartner (2007) there are four themes of non-western learning; “interdependent, communal, holistic and informal learning” (p. 237). What each means to non-western individuals may vary by culture differences. As a whole, there tends to be a drastic difference between what western and non-western cultures perceive as learning. Merriam et. al., term non-western societies as being more interested in collectivism than western cultures. In contrast, western cultures tend to be more focused on individualism.
In looking specifically at other cultures, Confucius believed that people learn through imitating others (Merriam et. al. 2007). Imitation occurs when people do not know how to behave in certain situations. As a result, their imitation of others helps them to learn about themselves and others. However, Merriam et. al. further contends that western learning is based more on Greek principles. In contrast, learning in the East tends to focus more on Confucian principles. These culture differences help to explain what one perceives to be knowledge. Merriam, Caffarella, & Baumgartner (2007) address that there are many stereotypes which perceive non-western cultures as being less knowledgeable than other cultures. However, what these individuals place importance on tends to be different.
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As an adult learner, I can understand the importance of responsibilities. In some senses, these responsibilities help to provide use with an identity. Non-western learning places a stronger emphasis as life as a learning process. In contrast, western learning places an increased importance on ‘formalized schooling.’ Cobern (1996) expands on this in noting, “There is a growing awareness that, for education to be effective, it must take much more explicit amount of the cultural context of the society which provides its settings, and whose needs it exists to serve” (p. 287). In relating back to Confucian thinking, Confucius believed that even baby birds must first flap their wings before flying. Therefore, learning can be perceived to be a multiple step process, regardless of culture.
Developing an understanding of how others learn is crucial. Through out life we are mixed with different people. It is important to understand how they process and perceive information. For example, an individual from a non-western society may perceive certain aspects of life as being less important than others. In the work environment, it is critical that individuals know how to interact and motivate others when working in groups. Regardless of the individual culture, there is a great deal of knowledge that individuals can gain from understanding non-westernized cultures.
- Cobern W.M., (1996) Constructivism and Non-Western Education Research. International Journal of Science Education 4 (3) 287-302.
- Merriam S.B., Caffarella R.S., Baumgartner L.M. (2007) Learning in Adulthood: A Comprehensive Guide. New York: John Wiley & Sons.
