The author describes learning as an art, something sacred, beautiful, and exhilarating, but she also acknowledges that learning may be unsettling at times because it entails addressing new concepts or thoughts. The writer wanted the readers to grasp the process that learning requires; it entails discomfort and hardships but is a rewarding process that leads to growth and progress.
The Discomfort of Learning
Learning has clearly become a soaring form of art in this contemporary world. We have progressed to the point where we no longer rely solely on experiential learning, but learning has become a choice that we value. The practice of learning new things has become ingrained in our daily lives. And to put it bluntly, learning is a divine art. It is an art in the sense that it involves creativity, intuition, and self-expression.
The process of learning, which is sensational and powerful, is talked about frequently and is often romanticized by strangers and scholars alike. But are we forgetting the part where learning new things is less adventurous and more uncomfortable? Learning is exciting, but it can also be unsettling at times because it requires confronting new knowledge or concepts.
The reality of student life can vary depending on the individual and their circumstances. However, no one is foreign to challenges. Face-to-face encounters with new things may lead us to question our current beliefs and understanding of the world. We tend to shudder at the sight of new ideas because we are so accustomed to sticking within the confines of our comfort zone, making us skeptical of change. This discomfort can manifest as feelings of anxiety, frustration, or confusion. In due course, if we remain discourteous towards change, we may ultimately dispose of a potential idea that might bring positive change to our life. On account of this, it’s important to keep in mind that discomfort is a normal aspect of learning and is required for growth. We may not be able to relate to people’s journeys toward growth, but all of us can always relate to the tension that comes before change happens.
This particular phase is also one of the most sacred phases of learning. Here, students become extremely sensitive and are prone to deluding themselves into thinking that they do not belong. Ironically, it is moments like this that we can all relate to. Therefore, in the process of idolizing the art that learning is, let us remember to not forget this mutual feeling of frustration, that this is the storm before the calm, and that it is inevitable. Instead of feeling negative emotions about it, let us accept that this is a natural process that we will eventually overcome. Let us learn to embrace the discomfort of learning. After all, if learning is an art, isn’t art chaos taking shape?
Degree of Thought is a weekly community column initiated by Tetso College in partnership with The Morung Express. Degree of Thought will delve into the social, cultural, political and educational issues around us. The views expressed here do not reflect the opinion of the institution. Tetso College is a NAAC Accredited UGC recognised Commerce and Arts College. Currently, the Degree of Thought Column is managed by the Department of Mass Communication, and the editorial team are Dr. Jenny Lalmuanpuii, Asst. Professor; K.C. Gabriela, Asst. Professor; and Rinsit Sareo, Asst. Manager, IT, Media & Communications.
For feedback or comments please email: dot@tetsocollege.org