Definition of the word resource person

The term "resource person" is commonly used in education, training, and professional development contexts. It originated in the 1950s and 1960s as a result of the increasing shift towards student-centered learning, which focused on encouraging students to take ownership of their learning by providing them with a variety of materials and resources. In this new educational paradigm, educators began to realize that external individuals with specialized knowledge or skills could offer valuable experiences and insights to students. These individuals were referred to as "resource persons" because they were seen as sources of diverse and unique learning resources that could enrich the classroom experience and promote active learning. The term also reflects the importance placed on collaboration and sharing in modern education. Resource persons are encouraged to work in partnership with educators, sharing their expertise to help students develop new skills and perspectives. This practice allows students to benefit from a range of learning resources, fostering a more holistic and effective learning experience. In summary, the term "resource person" reflects the importance of providing students with diverse and engaging learning experiences while emphasizing collaboration and sharing in modern education. Its etymology is rooted in the shift towards student-centered and active learning, which placed greater emphasis on offering learners a variety of resources, including those provided through the collaboration of external experts.