On Learning

Here’s a double thought on teaching. One of the presenters posited a Matix-like world in which we really could download expertise by simply asking the cloud through our mobile device. The mobile device could take images of the problem – his example, my car won’t start – and bring back step by step instructions. His point being here is a chance to escape the old 19th century rote memorization paradigm. Fair enough, but how can you ask for info and solutions when you lack context. For that matter, who become the subject experts in a world of experience learners?

Cut now to J.J. Abrams’ essay in this month’s Wired
"True understanding (of skill or effort) has become bothersome - an unnecessary headache that impedes our ability to get on with our lives (and most likely skip to something else). Earning the endgame seems so yesterday, especially when we can know whatever we need to know whenever we know it."