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What is this study about? This study is a continuation of research that began nearly two decades ago. The research responds to questions concerning the nature of high self-directed learners, and why and how they become life long learners. This iteration of the research looks specifically at the learning styles and characteristics of amateur astronomers. The results of the research will be used to guide decisions associated with the development of community based education enrichment programs, and to foster life long learning. The research will be reported at the 2008 International Symposium on Self-Directed Learning.

Why is this study important? When Alvin Toffler wrote his book, "Future Shock" he called attention to the rapid pace at which change is occurring. It is his belief that many people, indeed complete societies, can suffer from Future Shock, which he defines as "too much change in too short a period of time". He also identified a category of people who he calls "third wave" people. These people thrive on change, manage it, do not feel threatened by it, and it is my belief that they are the people within any society who enable that society to cope with change, embrace it, and move into a brighter future. Indeed, I believe it is these people who will be the most likely to cope with critical changes which might otherwise at some future point represent an extinction level event. I have operationally defined amateur astronomers as being third wave people. Now I am trying to understand why and how they become such people. This knowledge will better enable us as a society to develop programs and educational situations that foster the development of third wave people.

How does this work? Each respondent is provided one opportunity to complete the survey. The survey has three parts. The first part collects demographic information about the respondent. The second part collects information associated with your astronomy activities, other hobby activities, and occupation. The third and final part addresses learning styles.

If you provide your e-mail address, you will receive a copy of the results, and findings.

Please click on the next link to enter the survey.

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OnLine Training is pleased to support this research. We believe that at some point in the future man will face situations and events that threaten our very existence. It is impossible to say who and from where the genius will come to save mankind. This research is seen as contributing to the body of knowledge that will foster the development and growth of man's ability handle such events.

 

Sincerely,

 

Terrence R. Redding, Ph.D.

Co-founder Panama Canal Astronomical Society

Founder South West Oklahoma Astronomical Society

Provided Carl Sagan with his first view of Halley's Comet while in Panama

Founder, OnLine Training Institute