Settling on a definition of learning.

We have scoured the learning sector and industry for a definition of learning and here it is
Learning
1. The act, process, or experience of gaining knowledge or skill.
2. Knowledge or skill gained through schooling or study.
3. Psychology. Behavioural modification especially through experience or conditioning.

My personal favourite is Learning a change in behaviour as a result of experience

The human brain has evolved and adapted to:
Interact effectively with a complex and changing environment.

Solve “real” problems it perceives in that environment.

Abstract patterns from the complexity in that environment.

Modify itself so that it functions more effectively in that environment.

Focuses on that which it finds personally relevant or interesting

Fundamentally we are all wired to learn

Click here for information on learning styles

Other definitions of learning

It's what you learn after you know it all that counts. ~Attributed to Harry S. Truman

So learning is not just about knowledge

You learn something every day if you pay attention. ~Ray LeBlond
Learning is about focused attention

Very act of conscious learning requires the willingness to suffer an injury to one's self-esteem. That is why young children, before they are aware of their own self-importance, learn so easily. ~Thomas Szasz

Learning can be difficult if it impacts on our self-esteem

Learning is like rowing upstream: not to advance is to drop back. ~Chinese Proverb

The best time to learn is always now

In the words of Albert Einstein, “The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them.”

Learning is about creating new thinking

Click here for information on principles of learning

Learn about how to use reflective learning to accelerate your career

Back to home