LEARNING 2011 – THE INTERNATIONAL LEARNING CONFERENCE @ COCHIN

Indian Society for Training & Development (ISTD)- Kochi Chapter which I chair this year, in association with Lifelong Learning Foundation (LLF) Kochi organized an International Learning Convention; “Learning 2011” on 14th & 15th of January 2011 at Pastoral Orientation Centre, Kochi, Kerala.

The objective of the Convention was to introduce effective learning methods and processes to corporate facilitators, educationalists, trainers and teachers in this part of the world. From the archaic teaching process, the emphasis has to shift to learning process and the convention’s goal was to reiterate that learning is the responsibility of the learner. Methods like Theme centred Interaction (TCI), Open Space Technology (OST) etc. has brought in an effective experiential learning process for the seekers of knowledge. Once the learners undergo these methods, we expect the landscape of training to change for the better. Therefore, the learning convention was to play a catalystic and pioneering role to explore innovative ways in which individuals and organizations could learn and grow. In the process, our interest was to change and better the landscape of training and learning.

The 'Living Learning' experience

Learning is an integral part of our lives. In the conventional education and training systems, focus is more on the teacher and trainer. Humanistic psychologist Carl Rogers who had contributed much to the philosophy of learning, relates learning to personal change. He says that learning facilitates when the learner participates responsibly in the learning process.

Self-initiated learning which involves the whole person of the learner—feelings as well as intellect –is the most lasting and pervasive one. Independence, creativity and self-reliance are all facilitated when self-criticism and self-evaluation is primary and evaluation by others is of secondary importance.

Ruth Cohn, founder of 'Theme-Centered Interaction' (TCI) introduced the 'living learning' system. To her, the intended process of learning, the subjective learning experience of the individual as well as the shared goal in learning are expressed as equal components. Living learning emphasizes careful perception of oneself and others in both private and professional areas. It strengthens individual autonomy and interdependence. Living learning nurtures mutual respect.

In the living learning system, main role of the facilitator is creating opportunities for people to learn. This means providing congenial climate for learning, by establishing and maintaining appropriate structures and methods. Living learning is a natural process similar to organic farming as against those using chemical fertilizers. Living learning may lead to change through a slow, yet steady process unlike the conventional teaching and training promising quick remedy. Living learning system may not provide fast food type solutions to quench the thirst of the learner. Yet it could lead to robust, stable personal growth with due respect to her unique style. Such a change will help the learner to achieve her purpose in her life-leading to self-actualization.

At the 'Learning 2011' participants got ample opportunities to experience the fascinating journey of learning, triggering reflections and insights, that would last very long.

The facilitators of the “Learning 2011” came from over all over Europe. Names such as Hans-Georg Vom Berg, Hermann Eppler, Christa Reppel, Bernd Krock, Christiane Bieker & Thomas Abraham (he is from Kerala) are torch bearers of this learning tradition and we were fortunate to get them together for “Learning 2011”. It was for the first time that a convention of this order ran on parallel multiple tracks. At all point in time during the convention, 6 parallel sessions were running simultaneously.

About one hundred and fifty delegates from corporate establishments and teachers from professional institutions, Schools, Business schools and Colleges took part in “Learning 2011”.

A project of this magnitude with the facilitators from Europe needed funds and this could not have come from the delegates alone. Canon India, Kochi Refineries BPCL, BSEL Infra Projects Ltd, Manappuram Finance Ltd, National Textile Corporation, IBS Software Services, Petronet CNG Ltd, Muthoot George Group, HLL Lifecare Ltd, Synthite and Kitex Ltd chipped in with sponsorship.

The Convention was inaugurated by Mr. Prashanth Bhattacharya IAS, National President of ISTD. Mr. Mohan, Director-HR of Bharat Petroleum delivered the keynote address. After this, the delegates were split to different tracks (breakout sessions) upon their own choice and six parallel sessions ran concurrently for the next two days.

In the evening of the first day, there was an entertainment program in which Kerala Shastra Sahitya Parishad, an NGO of intellectuals, did a street play based on the concept of learning. Additionally, ‘System of Thoughts’, a band consisting of the students of TocH Public School Cochin played before the audience.

Before the Valedictory function on the second day afternoon, the participants of the training did a poster exhibition displaying the details of their learning during the convention. After this in a truly interactive valedictory function, participants paid encomium for the trainers and the trainers expressed their views about the process. The volunteers were acknowledged and mementos were given away to participants along with participation certificates.

As you see, this was truly a pioneering endeavor. A training of this nature never happened in Public domain in Kerala before. Efforts were put to bring the best of the facilitators, who were leaders in their field. It was the first time in Kerala that a training seminar has 6 track training sessions running parallel. Above all, the training methods that are learnt will help the delegates to employ international methodologies in their training efforts to make the learning process simple, effective and long lasting.

As I had always believed, learning is the constituency of ISTD. We had done our bit to enrich this constituency by bringing in the best of global practices. It was an experience that I would never forget.