The 1000 Plateaus of Rhizomatic Learning. Almost like a hefty dose of plant fertilizer for learners.

2004: The French philosopher Gilles Deleuze and the French psychoanalyst Félix Guattari develop rhizomatic learning. This is still an inspiring approach to seeing, understanding, implementing and experiencing the transfer of learning differently.

Mini Description

Deleuze and Guattari's concept of rhizomatic learning challenges traditional linear forms of knowledge acquisition by proposing a decentralized, networked approach. Rhizomatic learning has its roots in philosophical work of Deleuze & Guattari, particularly in "A Thousand Plateaus" (book), and emphasizes multiplicity, non-hierarchical structures and interconnectedness.

In short, learners do not follow a linear progression. They move in a rhizome, a network of interconnected nodes in which knowledge is constantly evolving and connections are made laterally. A kind of laboratory situation with 1000 test tubes, Petri dishes and mixing cylinders.

This learning replaces/challenges the traditional teacher-learner model with an exploration by the learners themselves; an independent engagement with perspectives, ideas and understandings and acceptance of ambiguity - a fluidity of knowledge according to the authors.

All a bit confusing? Quite normal with sophisticated approaches. It takes some time to find out what is applicable to your own situation; sound out, try, delete or continue to use. The classic "4 button approach" = press More, Less, Stop or Start. A wonderful quick procedure for daily work selection.

But what exactly is a rhizome? In botanical terms, rhizomes are not roots, but rather a thickened shoot axis (stem) of certain plants that runs underground, usually horizontally - without an actual beginning or end. They have their leaves and indefinite growth throughout the year. Examples: Ginger or bamboo.

And how does this rhizomatic learning work? An example by the authors:

Rhizomatic Inquiry: Mapping Connections in Knowledge Networks

Objective: To explore the principles of rhizomatic learning by investigating interconnected ideas and concepts through a collaborative 9 steps mapping exercise.

Longer Description (now take a deep breath - just read on, fascinating thoughts follow)

1. Mini intro to rhizomatic learning: focus on the interconnectedness, non-linearity and diversity of knowledge including the botanical explanation of the rhizome. And the metaphor of moving back and forth between the 1000 (knowledge) plateaus.Interesting paper on this by Charney here.

2. Form small groups, broad topic for each group such as confidence building - in line with the strategy or future goals.

3. One whiteboard, paper or digital screen per group.

4. Activate brainwriting/braindrawing - each group makes three clusters or rhizomatic nodes: key concepts, ideas and questions. 5. Visualize connections between nodes - lines, arrows, etc. to show relationships, influences and dependencies.

6. No fixed starting points, no predetermined paths: groups explore and expand their rhizomatic maps - new connections through deep dives.

7. The facilitator goes back and forth between the groups, moderating discussions, asking probing questions, inviting everyone to think critically about the connections.

8. All groups gather after the reflection and the facilitator calls on each group for a card presentation.

9. The facilitator concludes by initiating discussion among all groups to explore and compare or contrast each other's cards. Search for common themes and patterns. Recognize highlights and lowlights of the mapping.

Benefits of rhizomatic learning in Fast Forward format:

• The ability to challenge traditional hierarchical and linear models of education, offering a more dynamic and adaptable approach to knowledge acquisition.

• The capacity to transform education into a dynamic and inclusive process that celebrates diversity, promotes collaboration, and empowers learners to engage with knowledge in ways that are meaningful, relevant, and transformative.

The last years in my empowerment and CoP Community of Practice work I have tested different rhizomatic approaches focusing industrial safety. The collaborative knowledge and intelligence building impact in more than 60 countries is encouraging.

Networked self-directed learning formats for group empowerment and knowledge are becoming more important. Investing in the empowerment of co-learners is worthwhile. In the "1000 learning plateaus" of rhizomatic learning, I have focused on 4 different characteristics:

1. Multiplicity and Diversity: rhizomatic learning encourages learners to embrace complexity and diversity. The growing comprehensive understanding of topics, perspectives and viewpoints promotes critical thinking and creativity.

2.  Adaptability and Resilience: cultivating adaptability and resilience, navigating rapidly changing environments. Encourage exploration and experimentation.

3. Community and Collaboration: addressing knowledge building and dissemination through community. Promote dialog, peer learning, mentoring and co-creation through collective inquiry.

4. Empowerment and Agency: unleash the autonomy and agency of learners - active participation rather than passive consumption. Taking control of the learning journey - empowerment for lifelong learning.

The universe of learning transfer is a starry sky - different sizes, bright, distant, colorful.

With the best rhizomatic greetings