Creating capacity for learning: Are we there yet?

Abstract

Over the years, I’ve been investigating capacity for learning to understand under what conditions it’s seeded, flourishes and is sustainable. Drawing on my own and others’ research and knowledge, I’ve supported school and system leaders internationally in endeavours to create and sustain capacity for learning. My sense is that everyone engaged in similar activity believes that we want the best learning opportunities and outcomes for every child. But, to use a journey metaphor, have we arrived? In this article, I reflect on where we are now, then consider the purpose of learning, who should learn and what kind of learning is needed. I suggest what a system might look like if creating capacity for learning becomes a reality and how we might get there. In conclusion I argue for reorienting the continuing journey.