Variety of Learning Thrives in Fergus Falls
by Steve Heriot
Learning has been defined as “time spent in school for the purpose of acquiring knowledge and skills that can be applied in a future workplace.” In the last 30 years, the educational concept of “lifelong learning” has been coined to describe a more self-motivated, voluntary, and ongoing pursuit of knowledge. Lifelong learning can be based in curiosity, competitiveness, personal growth, or professional improvement. It can happen during daily interactions with others or with the world around us.
Also important is the understanding that people have a variety of preferred learning styles in order to be engaged and retain information. People learn from on-the-job-training, adult and continuing education, or internet-based learning environments. Many local schools and organizations in Fergus Falls have included the goal of “lifelong learning.”
A great example is the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center (PWLC), which launched a partnership with the school district in 2003 “to engage students in science, math, and writing through real-world, field-based learning experiences.” Over the years, the Prairie Science Class was formed and formally offered to fourth and fifth graders in the public schools. Curriculum was designed to match state standards, but the learning activities were more engaging than simply sitting at a desk being lectured to. Math might involve measuring the depth or temperature of snow, banding birds and measuring their wingspan, or writing while bundled up in a snowsuit, sitting in a prairie field, observing and reflecting. Molly Stoddard at the PWLC notes that “visiting the center becomes an enjoyable part of a child’s growing up years. They become lifelong learners, but also lifelong stewards of the environment.”
The Fergus Falls School District is very aware of how the theory and practice of education are changing. Superintendent Jeff Drake says that “an important consideration in program development is identifying the profile of a graduate. What are the qualities, skillsets, habits, and personal characteristics of our successful graduates? How can we prepare them to be happy, thriving citizens in tomorrow’s society? We are going to provide an environment that will deliver these kinds of proficiencies. The volume of information and rapid change in the world demands that we prepare students to do things that aren’t even invented yet. We need to help produce adaptable young people with core competencies like teamwork, problem solving, writing and critical thinking. This generation will have to be highly adaptable lifelong learners who know how to acquire new talents and stay relevant with changing technology.”
Other lifelong learning opportunities in Fergus Falls include a robust private school spectrum and a plethora of programs, clubs, events, classes, and educational material. In addition, M-State Fergus Falls offers more than 20 degrees and programs. Last, but certainly not least, Fergus Falls Community Education provides opportunities for lifelong learning for citizens of all ages. Classes include Early Childhood Education programs for young children and their parents, adult enrichment classes, youth programs, volunteer opportunities, classes for adults with disabilities, and adult basic education. Some of the most popular are food preparation, pottery, digital photography, and welding.
