Action: Ibn Sina

Title: Abu Ali al-Husayn ibn Sina, The Ideal Muslim Intellectual

Date: 980—1037 AD

Nationality: Central Asian

Creator: Abu Ali al-Husayn ibn Sina

Medium: Document

http://www.myhero.com/go/hero.asp?hero=I_Sina_LC_m5hs_MA_2010_ul

This document provides a good explanation of the individual attitude and initiative that is necessary before true learning can happen. In this document, ibn Sina explains the process of the learning throughout his life. He starts out as a child with unique intellectual abilities. Because of this, he takes it upon himself to study many different books and work out various proofs in order to advance his learning. When encountered with difficult material to master, ibn Sina even memorizes the book that contains the material. He later solves what was perplexing him. In this autobiography, we see an excitement for learning that aids ibn Sina in learning many different things. This is a good artifact to present at the beginning because in order to create a true learning environment, people need to be willing to use their agency to act. Excitement and engagement are some of the most important things you can have, and they are required for learning to be real and lasting. When a civilization has this excitement for learning, they are able to flourish and prosper, like the Islamic empire did during this same time period. This is necessary to discuss early so people will be open to learning.