Learning from and for one another: An inquiry on symbiotic learning

Abstract

Symbiosis is a biological phenomenon in which two dissimilar organisms coexist for mutual subsistence. The concept of symbiosis can be employed to foster mutual learning. In this paper, the idea of symbiotic learning is explored. To achieve this purpose, the concept of symbiosis is interpreted from a philosophical perspective, which is primarily derived from ecological philosophies such as Gestalt thinking, philosophy of coevolution, Chinese ecological wisdom from Buddhism and Daoism, and Kurokawa’s idea of the philosophy of symbiosis. These philosophies are essential for considering symbiotic learning. Furthermore, the significance and application of symbiotic learning are discussed. Specifically, this paper addresses the effect of symbiosis, demands of heterogeneous cultures, and scope of symbiotic learning. Moreover, this paper investigated the types of symbiotic learning in Chinese classics, including Xue Ji, Confucius’ Analects, and Zhuangzi. Finally, through the idea conveyed in Zhuangzi, I argue that a supreme symbiotic interaction is not maintained in purpose-built conduct but is bridged by forgetting in the mind.

Keywords:

• Symbiosis
• symbiotic learning
• ecological philosophy
• learning

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This research was sponsored by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan, under project number 105-2628-H-019-001.

Notes on contributors

Chia-Ling Wang

Chia-Ling Wang is a professor in the National Taiwan Ocean University. She is both the Chair of the Institute of Education and Director of the Teacher Education Center. Her study fields include the philosophy of education, curriculum theories, and higher education. Her current research interests are ecological philosophy and Buddhist philosophy; and thinks of these implications in educational theories and practices.