What metaphor, symbol or image describe how my Industrial Tech students learn.

            The learning processes of students of Industrial Technology classes are unlike those in other classes. First and foremost, in IT, only a small percentage of learning occurs while seated at a desk. Another small percentage of their learning i as result of instruction from a teacher. The rest, and vast majority, of learning for students in IT classes is based on experiences, particularly failure. I will expect failure from students again and again. But the failure comes in the form of trial and error. They learn how to and how not to go about processes by making mistakes, then having to backtrack and use more care or a different approach in attempt to counter those mistakes.

             The process of attaining knowledge in courses such as metals,welding, woodworking, or any other manual craft brings to mind the classic american children's story, "The Little Engine that Could". For those of you unfamiliar, the story is of a long train in need of an engine to pull it over a high mountain. After several refusals from larger engines, the little engine accepts the challenge. While repeating the mantra, "I think I can, I think I can," the little engine succeeds in a seemingly impossible task. 

             I suppose the metaphoric correlations between the learning curve for tech ed students and the little blue engine is loose. Nevertheless, the story reminds the reader that we can accomplish great things  if we put our minds to them. Learning a new craft is surely a difficult task which may seem overwhelming in its vast intricacy. But with self motivation, the reward from completing a project that may exceed the learners comfort zone is powerful enough to spark the interest in a world of education that was never previously considered.