Dr. Stephen Brookfield

For discussion this week, we are to select an Adult Education Hall of Fame inductee we find interesting and share information connected with this scholar. Because I am a big fan of Dr. Stephen Brookfield's writing pertaining to adult education, I immediately began searching for him among the inductee list.  My search was not in vain, Dr. Stephen Brookfield was inducted into the International Adult and Continuing Education Hall of Fame in 2009. 

What I appreciate most about Brookfield's perspective regarding adult education is the significance he places on understanding adult learners and their needs.  Instead of being rigidly focused on theory, Brookfield's perspectives are primarily learner focused.  Below is an interview clip from YouTube which briefly highlights Brookfield's idea of "good college teaching."

 

 

I also find Brookfield's perspectives on critical thinking and reflection facinating.  Brookfield places significant emphasis on teaching critical thinking skills, educators modeling critical thinking, and thinking critically about oneself.  Personally, I believe this is an area of education that is not adequately addressed.  While most expect critical thinking and analysis from their learners, many do not teach learners how to think critically, nor do they model critical thinking in ways learners can recognize. Below is a another interview clip from YouTube which briefly highlights Brookfield's perspective concerning critical thinking. 

 

 

Concerning Brookfield's books and articles, below is a list of some of my favorites (and ones I would like to read):

Links to articles (articles linked from http://www.stephenbrookfield.com/)

Contesting Criticality

What Students Value in Teachers

Using Discussion Methods