"It is interesting that you pick up on my usage of "learning" as opposed to
'skill.' My language belies a problem I struggle with that is deeper that
semantics."
Diane Rumley (Thursday, February 04, 1999 3:57 AM)
Interesting discussion on your position towards the difference in learning
and training. One thing you point out raises a contrast to the
internalization of the learning aspect. That is your reaction to the word
training because of a historical context, now of no living relevance to
Australian (your culture) life, I assume. The cultural aspect of language
and practice is paramount in our approaches to problem solution. If not,
the word training would have no negative meaning to you as you sort
through what could be a difference in training and education (both have a
learning aspect). Perhaps we use the word "learn" incorrectly, not train.
In both education and training there are learners, each with a different
learning bent, interest, ability, etc. Try to resolve the issue of
education versus training.
A story of language, culture and "meaningless" attention to a word or
phrase. Recently, a top executive of a U.S. firm resigned his position
because of the use of a legitimate word. Members of his organization
protested and he was gone. What was the word? "Niggardly." Now in this
case two cultures, one within the other, clashed. Why? As some would
note, "ignorance." The complainers have no notion (or the choice to ignore
it)of the proper use of some words. The word is actually common in its
use, in the discipline that the executive was a member of - budgeting. A
search of the Internet accessible documents demonstrated to me that the
word has use in academia.
Lessons learned for members of an organization?
1. Understand what some one is saying, not what you want to hear.
2. Know the cultural aspects of the language you use.
3. Resolve language issues with the context of the use of the word, not
outside of its context.
If all else fails, check the spelling and definition of a word then react.
--"Swan, Steve R. SETA CONTR" <SwanSR@ftknox-dtdd-emh5.army.mil>
Learning-org -- Hosted by Rick Karash <rkarash@karash.com> Public Dialog on Learning Organizations -- <http://www.learning-org.com>