For this optional update, I will make a short contribution on the subject: Describe and analyze the dynamics of learning in a curriculum practice that reflects "mimesis", "synthesis", "reflexivity", or a combination of these.

I will simply argue that learning is in my opinion a healthy combination of “mimesis" "synthesis" and "reflexivity".

This morning, my 8-year-old daughter who is in 2nd grade home schooling came to my desk to ask how to build a tall structure with toothpicks and gum. This is the result:

Tower of toothpicks and gums

It turned out to be fascinating experience where we touched many concepts: symmetry, balance, notion of angle measurement, additions and multiplication of large numbers (angles), architecture, art.

• Regarding mimesis, I showed her some basic initial moves of sticking the toothpicks symmetrically, I also showed her the initial switch from multiplication 6x6=36 to 6x60=360. She was able to reproduce from there one. This helped kick-start and avoid wasting time on topics less important for this exercise, considering my own time constraint.
• Regarding synthesis, she built in her mind a view of the triangular structures and understanding of the overall planning and building methods.
• Finally, regarding reflexivity, my daughter questioned her own understanding of forms and geometry. She related to a book she just read about famous architect Zaha Hadid and to her own personal goals of development. We looked at some links on Internet. With my guidance, we also briefly looked into molecular structure.

Happy to have achieved a complete structure, she gained views of next steps: tonight, she wants to see a documentary on molecules!

To conclude, I deeply believe that the various learning models complement one another. I will however give a priority to reflexivity and make sure that deep thinking happens. The others are there to support the deep thinking.