Three Navigational Metaphors for Addressing Learning and Teaching

Purpose: Metaphors can offer effective tools for understanding complex processes like teaching and learning. Design: Based on Lakoff and Johnson’s “life is a journey” metaphor, this paper presents three navigational devices (i.e., models) that are used by travelers (learners and teachers) along their journey: a map, a compass, and a global positioning system (GPS). Findings: These metaphors help characterize relationships between the learners and the teacher, the communication that enhances (or hinders) their shared discourse, and the environment where their learning takes place. Value: This novel article presents the uniqueness of three educational models through familiar and comprehendible metaphors while comparing their strengths and weaknesses. Teachers can combine the three teaching modes to provide a more engaging learning environment.