The global learner, in contrast with the focused learner, has a wide breadth of interests, often finding it difficult to narrow its pursuits to a manageable number of directions.  This type of learner has the longest entry in the yearbook and keeps his parents hopping as they try to keep track of all the social engagements he has scheduled. He thinks about the future and is visionary; but unlike the focused learner who thinks about the possibilities of principles applied to, say, problem-solving, the global learner focuses on the possibilities in people. The global learner is fascinated by others’ beliefs and attitudes: what they think, what they want, how they feel, how they respond.
He enjoys learning about ideas and values and tends to look at himself more subjectively than objectively. This student is most interested in searching for the significance of things and personalizing their meaning. The global learner is stimulated to make a difference in the world, to search for his unique contribution in history.
Such a learner is creative and flexible, but not detail-oriented or technical. This learner rather will act on hunches and impressions to form broad conclusions. This kid takes a quick look at his math homework and says, "Oh, I know how to do this," then proceeds to fill out the whole thing incorrectly.
Generally, global learners are high-achievers and do well academically, but often they set high standards for themselves. Their work and creations are an extension of themselves and are strongly tied to their sense of self-worth. Therefore, any failure or rejection of their work is often interpreted as failure or rejection of themselves.
The global learner is a communicator and performer, and he loves functioning in a group, especially when that group is her audience. He have to be known, recognized and acknowledged by others, especially her teacher. He also demands individuality and autonomy and the opportunity to act and express himself creatively. Some have a tendency to turn everything into a creative project.
The global learner does not show the competitive nature of the active learner in a group. Friendship as well as cooperation is important for him. This learner sympathizes strongly with others and does not do well in a competitive environment where ruthlessness and conflict are uncontrolled. He is usually well liked and sought after by his peers and enjoyed by adults.
Typically, the global learner has an aptitude toward the language arts, performing arts such as music and drama, psychology, counseling, the ministry or social services.
Program Suggestions
The global learner works best with an individualized and personalized approach to her education. He can be interactive and enthusiastic as long as there are opportunities for his input and creative responses. In consequence a discussion group will be more motivating than a lecture and a project more than a test.
As a result of his interest in people, choose resources that focus on how individuals or people groups have been impacted by the areas of study. Study about the scientists behind the theories or how inventions changed people’s lives. In biographies, history and historical fiction will have great appeal.
Because he thinks globally, a unit study approach that integrates subjects such as science, history and literature around a common theme, Japanese culture for instance, will appeal to her interest in understanding how events, ideas and inventions affect the people of that time and place.
Co-ops and field trips will become the focal point for most of the global learners’ studies. Home school program can always include lots of co-operative activities.
Typical strategy for tackling a tough subject or one that holds little interest is to organize a group.
This learner will need your help in learning to pay attention to details, as he is often forgetful and careless in his errors.
You should help your kids to overcome these tendencies as well with organizational tools, responsibility charts and editing programs on the computer.
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