# Embracing Practitioners: The Need for Hands-On Learners
Written on
Chapter 1: The Abundance of Fast Learners
In our modern world, the notion of being a quick learner is prevalent. Many individuals, myself included, have often considered themselves adept at grasping new information swiftly. A closer look reveals that a significant portion of the population shares this trait. Most of us can easily understand basic ideas, and many can tackle more complex topics as well. It’s the exceedingly abstract concepts that pose the greatest challenge, yet even those can be mastered with sufficient time and effort.
Reflecting on my two decades of continuous learning, I realize that my knowledge is not uniquely impressive; rather, it’s a testament to the capabilities of those around me. Despite my tendency to excel in academic settings, I suspect the reason for my success isn’t exceptional intelligence but rather my commitment to applying what I learn as soon as possible.
This leads us to the question: What distinguishes a fast learner from a practitioner?
Section 1.1: The Eccentricities of Learning
One of my earliest recollections of this tendency was when I left a note for my mother, cautioning her against overfeeding the fish. The note read something like, "They are already fed." I was probably seven or eight at the time. Instead of being scolded for my misspelling, my mother simply acknowledged it, which motivated me to improve. It wasn’t fear of punishment but a desire for pride that drove my learning. This approach extended to every new concept I encountered in school—each new word became an opportunity for immediate use, whether at home, in class, or out in public.
This practice has remained with me throughout my life. Whenever I learn something new, I strive to implement it as quickly and as often as possible, whether in my writing or when using new tools for my music projects. The real challenge isn’t learning quickly; it’s preventing ourselves from forgetting that knowledge just as fast.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Practical Approach to Learning
Section 1.2: The Value of Pragmatism in Education
To truly benefit from our education, we must adopt a pragmatic approach. This doesn’t mean we should only study practical subjects; rather, we need to be sensible about what we choose to learn. Even if we pursue knowledge purely for enjoyment, being pragmatic enhances our understanding. For instance, if we enjoy painting but have no desire to become professional artists, discussing our favorite works with friends and family can deepen our engagement with the subject.
By actively using our knowledge, we not only reinforce our understanding but also cultivate a thirst for more. Instead of focusing solely on speed, let’s prioritize becoming practitioners who engage with what we learn.
Chapter 2: The Need for Practitioners
In the video titled "You're Not Slow: Become a Speed Learner in 20 Minutes," viewers can discover strategies to enhance their learning abilities. The focus is on actionable steps to become a more effective learner while emphasizing the importance of applying knowledge.
Conversely, "Why Learning Fast Leads to Bad Grades" sheds light on the potential pitfalls of rapid learning. This video discusses how quick acquisition of knowledge might not always translate to success, advocating for a more thoughtful approach to learning.
Written while listening to: ‘Erratics & Unconformities’ by Craven Faults.
Thank you for taking the time to read! Your support during this early phase of my writing journey means a lot. If you enjoy what you see, I appreciate your claps and follows.
Who am I, you ask?
I am a musician who writes and a writer who creates music. Feel free to explore more of my work here.