We don’t know how to do everything, and surprises will occur. Both in the moment and afterward, not knowing is an opportunity.
Fire Culture
The Conditions We Create
If we as a workforce don’t consciously identify and exploit opportunities for learning as part of everyday work, we are failing to foster the constant growth required to navigate the dynamic environment in which we operate
Reflections and Insights on Opportunities for Learning in the Wildland Fire Service
I think that there are always ‘lessons’ all around us. We just have to be open and receptive to them . . . It’s all about the people, not the process . . . If we’re open minded, the learning opportunities are always there.
The Likelihood of Learning from Incidents
The likelihood of a lesson influencing our behavior is greatly increased by how personal the source of the lesson is. We strive to increase the likelihood of learning for those farther removed through personalizing learning experiences.
Clocks and Clouds
How does using the “Clocks and Clouds” analogy theory help us to think, talk about, and learn from past events?
Are You a Student of Fire?
Ultimately, a student of fire is first and foremost a student. A student is always learning. A student never assumes they have it all figured out. A student looks for the lesson. A student is willing to question their own beliefs.
‘Human Topography’ – A Concept We Can All Learn From
It is the nature of our job that we are thrown into high-risk operations with strangers. We have to quickly develop trust (or not), evaluate risk, and depend at least partly on strangers for our safety, which makes ours a strange and unique occupation.
HOW are You Teaching and Learning?
As you engage with your fellow firefighters and share observations and judgements it’s possible you’re teaching as much as you’re learning.
Know the System – Be Able to Articulate the Formal and Informal Learning System Around You
What is the learning system like on your module, crew, or home unit? How does it work? Do you dedicate specific time to learning or do you have a more opportunistic approach—capitalizing on learning moments as they present themselves?
Allow for Improvement
A deep commitment to learning asks us all to get comfortable letting go of a rigid or fixed mindset and coming into situations with true inquisitiveness.