All Learning Is Not Created Equally

What you learn is not nearly as important as how you apply what your learn. Learning is very subjective and the lesson may be interpreted in many different ways.

I witnessed this first hand many years ago when I brought home two puppies from the same litter. Initially they would not leave the yard; but as they grew they became more adventurous and would frequently explore the neighborhood (OK...run away!). When I would finally catch them I would discipline them both the same (I know now that training with praise if more effective...but that's a different story).

Although both dogs were disciplined the same (given the same lesson), their reactions were very different. One dog quickly learned that running away produced an undesirable result and she would no longer run away. The other dog learned that getting caught produced an undesirable result and she worked harder to not get caught after running away.

They were from the same litter, raised together in the same environment, and treated equally; yet they developed distinct personalities and learning styles. The same learning pattern was demonstrated many times throughout their lives with similar, opposite reactions.

I realize this example is with dogs, but I believe it applies equally with people. It is important to know that the intended message is not always interpreted the same and therefore the application of the knowledge can yield different results. If you are teaching or delivering an important message to several people, you must follow-up to ensure that the intended result has been achieved.

However, when the message is not critical and consistent application of the knowledge is not required, having different interpretations is a good thing. It sparks creativity and opens the door to new possibilities. It is the unique interpretations and application of knowledge that brings us new inventions every day. It provides interesting conversation and debate. It allows us to see things in a whole new way. And, it allows people to think for themselves.

To continue growing, you must continue learning. The more you can apply your own thoughts to your learning, the greater your growth will be. But to grow and learn even more, share your view with others and openly listen to their interpretations. As you gather more information your thoughts will begin to shift and you will take various pieces and fit them together to form a new picture.

Learning is not about memorizing facts and figures, it is about gathering information, interpreting it based on your experiences, and discovering how to apply the new knowledge in your life.

Scott
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