Page 208 - Foundations of Learning, 4th Edition (Revised)

Example of the Personal Development
Methodology

Scenario: Adam is a 21-year-old senior secondary education
major (emphasis in biology). He is presently finishing college in
Boston, MA and must decide where in the country he wants to
apply for teaching positions.

Step 1: Recognize the need for change and growth

Adam cannot simply stay where he is; one stage of his life is
coming to an end, so to continue to grow, he’ll need to make
changes.

Step 2: Explore contextual issues

Adam decided to make a list of his likes and dislikes. These, combined with his values, will help him
determine his objectives.

Likes Dislikes

warm weather being alone
oceans snow
being close to city life living in a city
visiting with his parents staying home

Step 3: Prioritize based on values
Adam would like to:
• be within a seven-hour driving distance of his parents’ home (they live near Washington, D.C.)
• rent his own apartment
• save some money
• live somewhere where he already knows someone
• teach students who are mostly college bound

Step 4: State clear outcomes
Adam wants to obtain a job:
• in a southern state where the weather is moderate to warm
• east of the Mississippi River
• with a reasonable starting salary
• where the cost-of-living is low

Step 5: Develop a plan

Adam asks Professor Wilcox, his academic advisor and an education professor, to give him advice and
assess his use of the personal development process and his progress. Professor Wilcox agrees.

202 Foundations of Learning