Learning Revolution

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In the video, Bring on the learning revolution! Sir Ken Robinson highlighted the importance of diversity in talent within the human community. Without this diversity, everyone would possess the same skills, limiting our contributions to society. While it might seem ideal to excel in every possible skill, it would eliminate the interdependence that defines true community. If individuals require no assistance and are not needed by others, can it truly be considered a community? 

Our limitations are blessings as they facilitate our learning, growth, and interactions within our community. These interactions teach us new skills and help us understand and relate to one another. I found it amusing when Ken Robinson joked about there being two types of people. In my own life, I've often said that God created two kinds of people in the context of art and music. There are those gifted with the ability to create art or music, and then there are those of us who appreciate and admire those talents. One cannot exist without the other. Artists desire appreciation and love for their creations, while musicians seek listeners to appreciate their music. Ultimately, we rely on each other's unique talents and contributions.

When someone believes they lack any talent or contribution, it can lead to feelings of worthlessness and a sense of not adding value to their community. This lack of purpose often requires the most encouragement to help them uncover their hidden talents. Regardless of how small or seemingly insignificant one's talents may appear, there's always someone who can benefit from them. Sometimes, individuals may not realize that what they excel at can be beneficial to others, especially if they're stuck in a fixed mindset with low self-confidence. In Sir Robinson's video, he emphasizes the importance of doing what you love because it connects to your most authentic self. Encouragement and self-discovery can help individuals realize their worth and the positive impact they can have on those around them.  

It's common for people to end up in jobs that they don't love, often because they follow a linear path prescribed by traditional education. Sir Robinson refers to this as the "track of linearity," where individuals are led to believe that if they follow a certain path and meet certain criteria, they'll secure a good job. However, this linear approach doesn't necessarily lead to a fulfilling and purpose-filled life where one's authentic self can thrive. This could be why some individuals fail to recognize talents that could benefit their community.

Sir Robinson argues for more than just educational reform; he advocates for an educational revolution. With rapid technological advancements, especially in internet and wireless technology, we now have unprecedented access to information across all fields. This accessibility has surpassed the traditional model of education, where knowledge was transferred from teacher to student. Nowadays, students can access information instantly and effortlessly, often with more powerful devices than what was available just a couple of decades ago.

As a result, expecting students to remain engaged in traditional teaching methods is no longer feasible. They have surpassed the traditional education system in terms of information access and processing speed. The current education system needs to adapt to this new reality, where students can access knowledge when and where they need it. This calls for a shift from linear teaching methods to more dynamic and interactive approaches that leverage technology and cater to individual learning styles.

References:

TED. (2010, May 24). Bring on the learning revolution! | Sir Ken Robinson [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9LelXa3U_I

RSA. (2010, April 1). RSA ANIMATE: Drive: The surprising truth about what motivates us [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6XAPnuFjJc

Thomas, D. D., & Brown, J. S. (2011). A new culture of learning: cultivating the imagination for a world of constant change. http://www.newcultureoflearning.com/newcultureoflearning.pdf