Learning Without Schools: Four Points To Free Yourself From The Educational Get-Certified Mantra

Learning Without Schools: Four Points To Free Yourself From The Educational Get-Certified Mantra

In today's society, the traditional education system is deeply ingrained in our minds as the only path to success. We are raised to believe that obtaining a degree or certification is the key to a prosperous future. However, there is a growing movement of individuals who are questioning the effectiveness of this system and seeking alternative ways to learn and grow. In this article, we will explore four key points that can help us break free from the educational get-certified mantra and embrace a new approach to learning.

1. Learn from Reality — Not Just From a Book or from Someone Talking About It

One of the biggest flaws in our current education system is the overemphasis on theoretical knowledge. We spend years studying textbooks and listening to lectures, but how much of that information do we actually retain and apply in real-life situations? The truth is, learning from a book or from someone talking about a subject can only take us so far. To truly understand and master a skill, we need to immerse ourselves in the reality of it.

Imagine a scenario where you are learning how to swim. You can read all the books on swimming techniques, watch countless videos of professional swimmers, and even listen to experienced coaches giving lectures on the topic. However, until you actually jump into the water and start practicing, you will never truly learn how to swim. The same principle applies to any other skill or field of knowledge. We need to go beyond the theoretical and engage with the real world to gain a deeper understanding and develop practical skills.

2. Use Your Own Head and Start Asking Questions

Another drawback of the traditional education system is the lack of emphasis on critical thinking and questioning. In school, we are often discouraged from asking too many questions or challenging the established norms. We are expected to passively absorb information and regurgitate it during exams. This approach stifles creativity and independent thinking.

To break free from this mindset, we need to start using our own heads and asking questions. It is through questioning that we can uncover new insights, challenge existing beliefs, and discover alternative solutions. By encouraging curiosity and critical thinking, we can foster a culture of innovation and intellectual growth.

Imagine a scenario where you are on a spaceship traveling to a distant planet. In this confined environment, you have limited resources and no access to formal education. In such a situation, you would be forced to rely on your own intellect and problem-solving skills to survive and thrive. By adopting a similar mindset in our everyday lives, we can unlock our full potential and break free from the limitations imposed by the educational system.

3. Learn by Doing and by Getting Your Hands Dirty

One of the biggest misconceptions about education is that it can only happen within the confines of a classroom. We have been conditioned to believe that we need to open a book and enroll in a formal program to learn something new. However, the truth is that some of the most valuable lessons are learned through hands-on experience and real-world application.

Take the example of ThredUp, a $184 million tech giant that started as a used-clothing site. Instead of relying solely on theoretical knowledge, the founders of ThredUp took a hands-on approach to build their business. They developed custom-designed warehouses and used machinery and algorithms to automate their logistics. By learning through doing, they were able to create a successful business model and disrupt the traditional retail industry.

Similarly, in our own lives, we can embrace a more experiential approach to learning. Instead of relying solely on textbooks and lectures, we can actively seek out opportunities to get our hands dirty and gain practical experience. Whether it's starting a side project, volunteering, or taking on new challenges at work, every experience is an opportunity to learn and grow.

4. Make Mistakes, Get Experience, Not Certificates

In the traditional education system, success is often measured by the number of certificates and degrees one has obtained. However, these credentials do not necessarily reflect a person's true abilities or potential. In fact, relying too heavily on certifications can hinder personal growth and development.

When hiring employees, many companies are starting to prioritize experience and practical skills over formal qualifications. They understand that real-life experience is often a better indicator of a person's abilities and potential. Certificates may demonstrate knowledge, but they do not guarantee competence or creativity.

By embracing a mindset of making mistakes and gaining experience, we can break free from the pressure to constantly seek certifications. Instead of focusing on obtaining a piece of paper, we can focus on honing our skills, building a portfolio of real-world achievements, and continuously learning from our failures.

In conclusion, the traditional education system is not the only path to success. By adopting a new mindset that emphasizes learning from reality, using our own heads and asking questions, learning by doing and getting our hands dirty, and prioritizing experience over certifications, we can break free from the educational get-certified mantra and forge our own path to intellectual and pragmatical acumen.

Actionable advice:

1. Seek out opportunities to learn from reality. Whether it's through internships, apprenticeships, or real-life projects, immerse yourself in the practical application of knowledge.

2. Embrace curiosity and critical thinking. Challenge established beliefs, ask questions, and seek alternative perspectives. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and challenge the status quo.

3. Prioritize experience over certifications. Focus on gaining practical skills and real-world achievements. Seek opportunities to make mistakes, learn from them, and continuously improve.

Remember, true learning happens beyond the walls of a classroom. Embrace the power of experiential learning and break free from the constraints of the traditional education system.