Our last post discussed the tragedy of how guided learning not only transforms learning from a rewarding experience into something dreaded, but also in the lost potential it represents. Guided learning tends to steer the learner in a specific direction, directing them towards predetermined solutions, where the cognitive work has been done and the only task left is for learners to confirm the knowledge.
This approach subtly rewires our cognitive process, leading to a somewhat linear path of cognitive development. This results in learners developing a fixed, one-sided perspective that hinders their ability to become flexible or adaptable. It’s like building a one-track railroad in the brain, where the train can only move along a fixed, unchanging course.
The brain, through repeated exposure to guided learning, learns to resist the discomfort of independent problem-solving. It becomes conditioned to expect clear solutions and immediate results, fostering a dependence on other for answers over independent thinking. This inclination towards groupthink is particularly evident in societies where there is widespread conformity and differing viewpoints are met with intolerance.
In this post, we will discuss the importance of environment in developing lifelong learning.
How Culture Affects Lifelong Learning
Most of us probably already know how culture plays a significant role in shaping our identities, behaviors and social interactions. It’s influence fundamentally shapes our values and perceptions, which are the principles we deem important. Cultural norms dictate acceptable behaviors within societies and can vary widely, what is considered respectful in one culture may be viewed as rude in another.
For instance, many Western cultures value clear, concise and direct communication, while Eastern countries favor a more indirect approach. This difference can lead to misunderstandings, as directness, considered efficient in the West, might be perceived as untactful or rude in the East. Just as cultural nuances shape communication, they also play a fundamental and complex role in fostering lifelong learning.
Culture profoundly influences our perspectives on learning and how we approach it throughout our lives. Consider this: if a system celebrates athletes who neglect training over those dedicated to rigorous practice, it wouldn’t be long before the entire team declined into mediocrity. Similarly, when hard work is not rewarded, the work itself becomes unrewarding and feels like a burden.
How to Identify a Lifelong Learner In the Workplace?
With technology rapidly transforming the workplace, lifelong learning is becoming ever more crucial. However, the fundamental issue we must address is whether the culture values continuous learning, or is it unintentionally discouraged? To answer this, we must first examine what a lifelong learner looks like at the workplace.
Lifelong learners, with their growth mindset and internal desire to expand their knowledge and skills, are open-minded and non-defensive. They demonstrate a high degree of accountability by taking ownership of their work, proactive in facing challenges and are willing to invest effort to achieve mastery, which directly translates into high productivity. Moreover, because they think independently, they often bring diverse perspectives that question established norms, a behavior which stems from their inherent adaptability trait.
Curious to explore the cultural environments that promote lifelong learning and other key factors? Like and follow for part 5.
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