Challenging the Status Quo: Redefining Learning Beyond Expectations (Based on Episode 5)

I'm going to level with you: learning comes with challenges. I like to think of learning a bit like Tom Petty’s “Into the Great Wide Open,” or if you’re a ‘90s kid, like dying of dysentery on the Oregon Trail. It starts off fun—being curious, striving for a better life, and setting out into the great wide open. But, much like on the Oregon Trail, you can prepare your wagon all you want, but you have absolutely no idea what’s coming next. Chances are, your wagon’s going to break down, or someone’s going to catch typhoid.

Learning isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, and I’m convinced it has a lot to do with what society tells us learning should be. Spoiler alert: society's version of learning often reinforces the status quo. But let’s get one thing straight: learning and education are not synonyms. Learning happens everywhere, all the time, while education is this formal process of receiving information that typically happens in a designated place—where learning can happen but doesn’t necessarily have to.

Many of us have spent years absorbing messages that our worth is tied to our intelligence, output, and performance. Whether it’s feedback from our kids, messages from learning mentors, or the unsolicited advice of well-meaning relatives, we've all had to navigate a minefield of positive and negative messages. No one’s been exempt. Sure, learning can be challenging, and it’s definitely not all sunshine and rainbows. It can be difficult work at times, but it’s also an amazing journey that leads to an incredible life. For every challenge, there’s a strategy or an answer that can help us transform our lives for the better.

One Size Does Not Fit All

As a young learner in a traditional school setting, I knew something wasn’t quite right with how differently my friends and I experienced grades and academic content. Fast forward to adulthood, and I finally had the language and experience to call out the absurdity of trying to standardize learning. Each of us is unique, with distinct needs, strengths, and learning styles. Yet, society insists on a one-size-fits-all approach, trying to mold everyone into the same model. That’s not just impractical—it’s downright insane. Personalized learning isn’t just a preference; it’s a necessity for true engagement and growth. This epiphany underscored the importance of individualizing learning experiences to foster deeper understanding and personal development.

Intentionality: The Key to Overcoming Challenges & Navigating Relationships

One of the biggest challenges in learning and life is intentionality—or, more accurately, the lack of it. Even as a kid, I instinctively understood the need to be intentional about my learning. This intentionality is crucial in defining personal success and focusing on what truly matters. In a world that constantly pulls us in a million meaningless directions, being intentional helps us stay grounded and aligned with our values.

And when it comes to relationships, intentionality is just as important. With the demands of modern life, it’s easy for relationships to fall by the wayside. But I’ve learned the importance of making time for one another and being deliberate in nurturing connections. Whether in learning or relationships, intentionality reinforces the value and priority we place on the people and things that matter most.

The Microwave Mentality: A Modern Challenge

Ah, the “microwave mentality”—where instant gratification reigns supreme. In a world where fast food and next-day delivery have become the norm, the slow, deliberate process of learning feels almost archaic. This impatience can lead to unrealistic expectations, especially among younger learners who may equate instant success with intelligence. But let’s be real: true learning takes time, effort, and patience—qualities that are increasingly undervalued and rarely practiced in today’s society.

Time: The Ultimate Challenge

Time might just be the most challenging aspect of learning. As a parent of three children under two and a half, I feel the time crunch in ways I never fully understood B.C. (before children). With societal pressures dictating timelines for everything from education to a young learner’s milestones, there’s a constant sense of urgency. Managing time, both personally and professionally, is no small feat. Prioritization is key—by staying grounded in the present and focusing on what truly matters, we can better navigate the demands of modern life.

Dismantling Societal Norms: Learning Without Boxes

If I’d been around in the ‘60s, I’d have been one of those women burning a bra, passionately railing against societal norms. Arguing against societal boxes around learning is kind of my jam. These rigid structures often stifle creativity and individual growth while perpetuating mental health issues. A more personalized approach—one that recognizes the unique needs and strengths of each learner—is transformational for learners of any age. By dismantling these societal constructs, we can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment.

Technology: A Double-Edged Sword

While technology offers incredible opportunities for learning, it also comes with significant challenges. There’s an entire movement right now of neuroscientists and psychologists talking about the impact of technology on young learners, encouraging adults to delay certain types of technology use until kids are at least through puberty. Technology connects people, provides unlimited information (some factual, some completely made up), and gives us all a dopamine hit. But let’s be real—we need to be intentional and mindful in our use of technology, encouraging critical thinking about how and why we use digital tools.

Personalized Learning: The Ultimate Solution

For me, the answer to all these challenges lies in personalized learning. By tailoring learning experiences to individual needs, we can create environments where people truly thrive. Personalized learning fosters engagement, supports growth, and provides the tools needed for limitless transformation. I’m all in for a world where every learner is seen, heard, and supported in their unique journey. So, how about you? Ready to be a voice and leader in that change?

Looking Ahead: The Future of Learning

The journey of learning is far from over, and while it comes with challenges, the future looks bright with the right strategies and mindset. We've explored how learning is much more than formal education—it's a wild, unpredictable adventure! By embracing each learner’s unique journey, we can foster environments where everyone thrives. So as we look ahead, let’s commit to a future where learning is as diverse as the learners themselves, where challenges are met with creativity and resilience, and where we finally say goodbye to those outdated societal boxes. And if you ever feel overwhelmed by it all, just remember: even on the Oregon Trail, sometimes the best strategy is simply to avoid getting bitten by a virtual snake and to keep moving forward—preferably without losing any more oxen along the way.