Origin Theories of Learning: A River With Many Sources

Abstract

This chapter is grounded in a closer examination of the multiple origins of our theories of learning. Two questions guide our inquiry. First, in what ways has the science of learning and development originated in the lifeways of our ancestors? And second, what are some Global South Side origins of our theories of learning? First, we use two river stories to highlight growing restorative sociocultural and socioaxiological currents in the field. We then offer five origin theories: (a) spiritwork; (b) land is, therefore we are; (c) storying relations; (d) formal and organic intellectuals; and (e) settings grow from settings. We describe each one and potential ways forward for those interested in designing collective thriving grounded in our age-old theories of life.