What Confucius Teaches Us About Active Learning

2·9 The Master said, “When I talk with Hui, we never disagree for a whole day, and he seems stupid. But when I examine his private conduct, I find that he is not stupid.”

[Notes]

(1) Hui: His surname was Yan, his given name Hui, and his style name Ziyuan. He was born in 521 BC, 30 years younger than Confucius, and a native of Lu. He was Confucius’ favorite student.

(2) Not opposing: Not raising opposing opinions or questions.

(3) Examining his private affairs: Examining Yan Hui’s words and deeds in his private discussions with other students.

Translation

Confucius said, “I lecture Yan Hui all day long, but he never raises any objections or questions, and he seems like a fool. When he leaves, I examine his private words and find that he has developed some ideas about what I have taught him.

Commentary

This chapter discusses Confucius’s educational ideas and methods. He was not satisfied with students who never raised any objections or questions, and hoped that students would use their brains and think about the issues when they were being educated. Therefore, he thought that people who did not think about issues and did not raise different opinions were stupid.

The Value of Silent Reflection

Confucius valued students who actively engaged with the material, even if this engagement was not immediately apparent. He believed that true wisdom came from questioning, reflecting, and internalizing teachings rather than passively accepting them. This approach is still relevant today, especially in an era where active participation and critical thinking are highly prized in education.

Modern Application in Education

Encouraging Active Learning: Modern educators can take a page from Confucius’s book by encouraging students to think critically and reflect deeply on the material. This can be achieved through various methods such as open discussions, reflective essays, and critical questioning.

Balancing Silence and Engagement: While active participation is essential, there is also value in silent reflection. Students should be given the space to process information internally, leading to a more profound and personal understanding.

Confucius’s Educational Philosophy

Confucius’s educational methods emphasized the importance of developing independent thought and critical analysis. He did not favor students who blindly agreed with him but rather those who could reflect, question, and develop their own insights.

Key Takeaways for Educators

Foster Critical Thinking: Encourage students to question and debate, fostering an environment where different perspectives are valued.

Promote Reflective Practices: Incorporate activities that allow students to reflect on their learning experiences, helping them internalize and apply their knowledge.

Value Silent Reflection: Recognize that not all learning is immediately visible. Silent reflection can be a powerful tool for deep understanding.

Cultural Insights

Understanding the cultural context of Confucius’s teachings can enrich the learning experience. In Chinese culture, the balance between respect for authority and independent thought is a nuanced one. Confucius’s approach highlights the importance of respecting wisdom while also encouraging personal intellectual growth.