Yesterday, we explored a definition for knowledge. Today, let’s look to defining learning and how it differs from knowledge. Returning to the American Heritage Dictionary, learning can be defined as “the act, process, or experience of gaining knowledge or skill; knowledge or skill gained through schooling or study.” Aha! So there is an acknowledged link between knowledge and learning! However, it’s important to note that learning includes the idea of skill acquisition as well.
So let’s return to my working definition of knowledge and break it down in light of this basic definition of learning:
- Knowledge feeds learning
This seems very consistent with the basic definition of learning.
- Learning provides an environment that enables the learner to not only acquire knowledge but also create new knowledge
The American Heritage Dictionary definition of learning addresses the acquisition of knowledge, but it does not address the higher-order thinking skills related to creating new knowledge. It also suggests that learning may be restricted to only formal education, but we know that much learning occurs informally and even on-the-job.
- Performance is the result of what happens when knowledge and learning work in concert with one another.
Looking at the definition of learning, I must consider whether my equation of Knowledge + Learning = Performance is flawed. If I convert the equation to reflect the learning definition, it would read: Knowledge + Knowledge + Skill = Performance. Or would that be 2K + S = P? But I digress (especially considering that we are using the term "equation" somewhat loosely—as a conceptual equation rather than a purely mathematical one).
The important thing for us to remember from this discussion is that knowledge is an integral portion of learning and both knowledge and learning need each other to yield the desired performance.
References:
Learning. (n.d.). The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Retrieved July 28, 2007, from Answers.com Web site: http://www.answers.com/topic/learning
- Robin
Copyright Robin Donnan 2007. All Rights Reserved.
Performance Associates, Inc.
