Most Allies and enemies of learning are part of my Way of Being. The idea of Environmental allies and enemies of learning covers situations where something external to me affects my opportunity to learn.
Cultural narratives
Cultural narrative and responsibilities make it difficult to even see the ruts we are in, let alone step out of them1. At all levels (country, family, work, etc.) they limit the learning I have access to. For me the limits are in the form of Cognitive blindness. Others are sadly restricted by authoritarian or religious regimes that hide learning as a deliberate strategy to retain power.
Wide reading and the use of Mental models are ways to overcome the negative impact of Cultural narratives. Accessing leaders, mentors and coaches who drive narratives attractive to me can also expand my understanding2.
A Shared background of obviousness is particularly limiting when I join a new group. I am conscious of being in a new environment and put aside any fear of asking questions to break through the limits unknowingly caused by others.
Physical environment
I am aware the physical environment I’m in can impact my learning. If I’m interested and engaged in a plenary session I’ll sit at the front. When I’m tired I will sit more to the back and sides. My naturally chosen seating position feeds me information on how I feel and how my learning may be impacted.
Room position impacts hearing and vision.
Footnotes
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Burkeman (2022), 10 ways to get the most out of your time on this planet ↩
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Sieler (2003), Coaching to the Human Soul (Volume I) > Chapter 10 - The Hidden Power of Conversations ↩