Learning Agility with Noah Atkinson

What does it mean to be an agile learner?

Learning agility is a skill that enables us to learn something new in one place and then apply what we learned elsewhere, in a completely different situation. Learning agility is our ability to learn, adapt, unlearn, and relearn to keep up with constantly changing conditions.

Agile learners are comfortable being uncomfortable. They can navigate any new or uncertain situation because they use prior knowledge and past experiences to make sense of a new set of circumstances.

Why is learning agility an important skill?

• Helps us navigate an uncertain situation by using past experiences
• Encourages open-mindedness
• Promotes personal and professional growth
• Cultivates confidence
• It is one of the highest-ranked qualities in an effective leader
• It is a highly sought after skill in the workplace

Discussion with Noah Atkinson, director of the Concentrated Conduct Adjustment Program at the Belmont County Juvenile Court

Noah Atkinson is no stranger to being an agile learner. He grew up in a small town and went on to pursue a business degree. Later, feeling compelled to make an impact on today’s youth, he pursued his teaching certification for grades 8-12. That job path led to his current position at the Belmont County Juvenile Court. He uses the skills and knowledge he acquired along his career path to navigate the ever-changing, never boring job, working with the youth at C-CAP. He even talks about how he learns from them every single day.

Qualities of an agile learner according to Noah A.

• Adaptability
• Open-mindedness
• Fearlessness
• Focus
• Perseverance
• Proactive mindset

The Concentrated Conduct Adjustment Program (C-CAP) at the Belmont County Juvenile Court

provides intensive supervision and opportunities for youth and probation officers to work together. Youth report on Saturday during the school year and four days a week during summer break for team building exercises, academic work, life skills, community service, and counseling. It helps youth build self-esteem, break bonds of dysfunction, and challenges them to find the internal physical and emotional strength to make effective change in their lives.