What is learning?
Learning is one of the most fundamental and essential experiences of our lives. From the moment we are born, we learn everything from how to breathe and walk to how to speak a language. A baby learning to grasp a rattle, a student learning to solve complex mathematical equations, and an adult learning to cook a new recipe are all examples of the same thing: we are always learning.
However, when you ask "What is learning?", you may be looking for a deeper, more philosophical answer. Let's take a look.
Learning as change
One way to think about learning is as a change in our knowledge, behavior, or abilities. When we learn something new, we are making a change in the way we understand the world around us. This change can be small or large, subtle or dramatic.
For example, when a child learns the alphabet, they are making a change in their knowledge of the world. They are now able to recognize and name the letters of the alphabet. This change in knowledge allows them to learn other things, such as how to read and write.
Similarly, when a student learns how to solve a math equation, they are making a change in their behavior. They are now able to perform a task that they could not do before. This change in behavior allows them to solve more complex problems and learn more advanced mathematics.
Learning can also involve changes in our abilities. For example, when an adult learns to play a musical instrument, they are making a change in their physical abilities. They are now able to coordinate their hands and fingers in a new way. This change in ability allows them to express themselves creatively and enjoy the pleasure of playing music.
