Introduction
In his article “Learning in the Key Life”, Jon Spayde explores the various views and definitions that individuals hold on education. He believes that education is comprised of various life experiences and that there is a need for people to establish a balance between academic education and self education. This is because according to Spayde, academic education does not really prepare one for the real world like self education does. Although there is significant value in academic education, Spayde feels that class and education are all about power.
Spayde believes that the most efficient way to learn is through life experience. He says that “The whole world is a classroom”. According to him, people are bound to learn more through their everyday experiences rather than spending countless hours inside a classroom. This is exemplified in another quote where he states that “Learning takes place across the span of a lifetime, not just in sixteen years of formal schooling”. Some of the various everyday experiences through which one can learn include interaction with friends, sporting activities, hiking amongst others.
Spayde attributes the current gap in the American society to disparities in formal education. He states that the notion among the American society members that some individuals are more educated that others is what has created this gap. This notion has essentially led to a misunderstanding of the concept of education. It has led people to start viewing education as a power source that can significantly enhance their social status as well as wealth instead of viewing it as source of self enlightenment.
In conclusion, it is safe to say that Jon Spayde article is an eye opener to many people. It teaches people that it not really what is leant in class that matters. What matters is the application of what is learnt in the real world and the experience that one gains from applying this knowledge in aspects of everyday life.
References
Spayde, Jon. “Learning in the Key of Life.” The Presence of Others. Ed. Andrea A.
Lunsford and John J. Ruszkiewicz. 4th ed. New York: Bedford St. Martin’s, 2004.
64-69.
