Öğrenmeyi öğrenmek | Emrah Safa Gürkan | TEDxIstanbul

Summary

In this thought-provoking discussion, the speaker delves into the concept of 'learning to learn' in the context of a rapidly changing world. They challenge the conventional approach to education, particularly the focus on personal development books and university degrees, arguing that true growth comes from critical thinking and self-driven learning. The speaker emphasizes the importance of questioning, adapting, and using technology to foster lifelong learning. With examples from history, culture, and modern educational systems, the talk highlights the need to go beyond superficial knowledge and seek deeper, more meaningful development.

Takeaways

• 😀 The concept of 'learning how to learn' is essential in today's changing world, as it helps individuals adapt to rapidly evolving environments.
• 😀 Personal development books often provide general advice that may not work for everyone, as each person has unique backgrounds and needs.
• 😀 Education today is not enough to guarantee personal or professional success. Universities are increasingly becoming less relevant in equipping individuals with practical skills.
• 😀 In many countries, the number of universities is growing, but their educational quality and resources (such as libraries) are often lacking.
• 😀 The rise of the internet has made learning more accessible than ever. With online resources, people can improve themselves without formal education.
• 😀 It's crucial to learn how to effectively use online tools, like Google, to gather information, rather than relying solely on traditional methods or formal education.
• 😀 Information and knowledge are not static. Learning is an ongoing process that requires active engagement and critical thinking.
• 😀 People often seek easy solutions to complex problems, but real growth comes from facing challenges and working hard to overcome them.
• 😀 You cannot become an expert in a field without putting in the necessary time and effort. Success requires deliberate practice and dedication.
• 😀 Asking questions and being curious is fundamental to learning. People who avoid asking questions limit their own development.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the speaker's discussion in the transcript?

The primary focus of the speaker's discussion is the concept of 'learning how to learn,' emphasizing the importance of intellectual growth and self-improvement in the rapidly changing world.

How does the speaker view personal development books, and why?

The speaker criticizes personal development books, claiming they are limited in scope because they offer generalized advice that cannot apply to everyone due to individual differences in DNA, culture, economic status, and personal experiences.

What does the speaker think about the relevance of universities in today's world?

The speaker argues that universities are no longer sufficient on their own for comprehensive personal or intellectual development, as they are focused on outdated methods and don't prepare students adequately for modern challenges.

Why does the speaker mention the changes in the number of universities in Turkey?

The speaker mentions the growth in the number of universities in Turkey to highlight the disparity between quantity and quality, suggesting that while the number of universities has increased, the quality of education and resources (like libraries and books) has not kept up.

What does the speaker say about the accessibility of knowledge through the internet?

The speaker praises the internet for making knowledge widely accessible, allowing individuals to easily access millions of books and academic resources online, transforming the way people can learn and grow intellectually.

What is the speaker’s view on the traditional approach to knowledge and learning?

The speaker critiques traditional, restrictive views of knowledge, where information is seen as a limited commodity. They emphasize that knowledge should be seen as something open and evolving, to be shared and explored freely.

How does the speaker suggest we should approach learning in today's world?

The speaker suggests that learning should be self-directed, using the vast resources available online, including academic journals, books, and even social media. They stress the importance of questioning and analyzing information critically.

Why does the speaker mention historical examples like the creation of universities?

The speaker references the historical context of universities, particularly how they were initially created in the 19th century to train professionals like engineers, doctors, and officers, to illustrate how universities' roles have shifted in today's society.

What does the speaker think about the concept of 'easy success' and shortcuts in life?

The speaker criticizes the desire for shortcuts and easy success, using examples like weight-loss teas and quick fixes, arguing that true development requires hard work, dedication, and continuous effort.

What does the speaker mean when they say 'learning from failure' is important?

The speaker highlights that failure is an essential part of the learning process. Instead of avoiding failure, one should embrace it as a stepping stone to greater understanding and growth.