Learning is a dynamic and evolving process, and while various methods exist, one approach stands out as particularly effective: sharing. Whether it\’s exchanging ideas, experiences, or knowledge, the act of sharing not only fosters a sense of community but also proves to be one of the most powerful ways to enhance our understanding and grasp new concepts. In this article, let’s explore how sharing contributes to the learning process and why it is often considered the best way to learn.
First, it is crucial to pinpoint the differences between sharing and other methods of learning
In traditional methods of learning, the general process starts from approaching the source materials (such as books or videos), then continues with understanding and analyzing, before concluding with revision.
When sharing knowledge, source materials will be approached and understood in pretty much the same way. However, instead of relying on revision, sharing forces us to break down the knowledge we have, in order to explain it and reason it out for other people.
In this process of explaining and reasoning out, we need to actually pinpoint the very essence of the knowledge, boiling it down to the most major information, and conveying it in a way that is simple, understandable, and applicable.
Overall, the benefits of sharing are endless to count, but some of the most up-front benefits are as below:
1. Diverse Perspectives:
Sharing brings together people from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. When individuals share their knowledge or insights, it provides a diverse range of viewpoints that can enrich the learning experience. Exposure to various perspectives encourages critical thinking and a broader understanding of a subject.
2. Active Engagement:
The act of sharing requires active engagement. Whether it\’s explaining a concept to someone else or participating in a discussion, actively engaging with the material helps reinforce understanding. When we share information, we are more likely to internalize it and retain the knowledge for a more extended period.
3. Teaching Reinforces Learning:
When you share what you\’ve learned with others, you reinforce your own understanding of the material. Teaching forces you to organize your thoughts, clarify concepts, and address potential gaps in your knowledge. This process deepens your understanding and enhances your retention of information.
4. Building a Learning Community:
Sharing fosters a sense of community among learners. Collaborative learning environments, where individuals actively share ideas and information, create a supportive network. This community not only provides encouragement but also serves as a valuable resource for ongoing learning and problem-solving.
5. Feedback and Iteration:
Sharing opens the door for constructive feedback. When you share your work or ideas, others can provide insights and suggestions for improvement. Constructive criticism is a powerful tool for refining and enhancing your understanding. By incorporating feedback, learners can iterate on their work and continuously improve.
6. Application of Knowledge:
Sharing often involves applying knowledge in real-world scenarios. Whether it\’s through group projects, discussions, or practical demonstrations, applying what you\’ve learned in a tangible context solidifies your understanding. This application of knowledge is a crucial step in the learning process.
7. Boosting Confidence:
Sharing not only contributes to intellectual growth but also boosts confidence. As individuals actively participate in discussions, contribute ideas, and share their insights, they develop a sense of competence and self-assurance. This confidence, in turn, positively impacts the learning journey.
Conclusion:
In a world driven by information and constant innovation, there’s immense value in learning and in sharing what we learn. Embracing a mindset of openness and collaboration creates an environment where knowledge flows freely, benefiting everyone involved, and breaking through “perspective bubbles” which often occur where people are unable to approach a wide range of viewpoints or knowledge.
