From Narrow to Open: Improving Learning Readiness through Learning Orientation

Abstract

The paper aims to discuss the potential of improving individual readiness for informal learning through the understanding of learning orientation. Learning orientation is how individuals engage in learning as determined by their self-concept, experience, learning readiness, learning sense, and learning motivation. A person’s learning orientation is influenced by contextual factors affecting individual learning capacity. In turn, learning orientation is facilitated by problem solving, sensemaking, and mental framing, particularly when individuals are confronted by challenges outside their work routine. Problem solving can facilitate individuals’ sensemaking of circumstances by enhancing their mental framing, which may support or hinder their subsequent problem solving experience. Problem solving is a cognitive process that influences the way individuals interpret a situation for further action. Sensemaking is a spontaneous interpretive process while mental framing is more of a decision making process generating potential scenarios and actions. The paper offers implications for Human Resource Development (HRD) research and practice.