Learning and Unlearning: The Lifeline for Relevance

People possessing excellent soft skills despite lacking in some knowledge areas reach top positions as compared to relatively knowledgeable people with underdeveloped soft skills.

These words by an experienced teacher at the Islamabad College of Girls during a project discussion captured the need for constant learning but came as a surprise at the awareness of such a need. As professionals, students, or generally as human beings, we have at least a semblance of an understanding of the need for continuous learning and unlearning. We also understand to some extent that this is particularly true in the case of soft skills because they are essentially social skills that develop and become more sophisticated over time.

What is Continuous Learning?

Before delving into the benefits and imminent need for continuous learning and unlearning, posing this question is important: What exactly is continuous learning? Continuous learning, constant learning, or lifelong learning is the practice of continuously gaining new skills, knowledge, and information that goes beyond conventional school or professional training and is informed by self-motivation. Apart from external rewards and benefits including a better skill set, greater confidence, and increased productivity, research shows that continuous learning translates into fulfillment and satisfaction with one’s work and life.

What is Continuous Unlearning?

Continuous unlearning, the process of shedding disadvantageous old habits, beliefs, and ideas, also leads to the same results. Renowned futurist Alvin Toffler once said, “The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.” Unlearning is as important as learning because both processes follow each other, and are mostly dependent on each other to be effective. Unlearning becomes particularly important when a person is going through or adapting to a change. Be it starting a new job or moving to a new city, it would be correct to say that one’s unlearning capabilities would define the comfort or the discomfort of the adaptation.

In the context of globalization and an increasingly interconnected world characterized by a remote workforce, learning and unlearning is a particularly important skill in relation to career success. This requires being centered in one’s local job market and its cultural implications, but also being aware and at par with the global standards, in order to truly emerge as a ‘globally competitive citizen.’

This begs the question: How to develop this ability or skill to continuously learn and unlearn? It is surprising to know that everyone recognizes the importance of continuous learning and development to a certain extent. This is exemplified by a research study conducted by the Pew Research Center on the general workforce. The study found that 87% of adults recognize that in order to keep up with the changes in the workplace, it will be essential or important for them to get training or develop new skills.

How to Develop the Capacity to Learn and Unlearn?

There are certain behaviors that facilitate and enhance the development of the ability to learn and unlearn. The first one is self-evaluating and consciously discerning thoughts and behaviors that are limiting a person’s true potential. This is part and parcel of the growth mindset conceptualized by American psychologist Carol Dweck which means possessing the attitude that skills could be developed and improved through practice, and setbacks are learning opportunities. This will also go on to include defining goals and relating them with your personal motivations leading to a well-defined and attainable pathway.

How could technology help?

Advancement in technology, while posing many threats to human skills development is also pivotal in facilitating the journey of continuous learning and un-learning. Virtual reality is one such technology that provides a safe environment where people can learn and unlearn various behaviors. Whether you're working, studying, training, or just starting your career, virtual reality simulations that mimic real-world situations can be incredibly helpful.

For example, you can practice delivering a boardroom presentation confidently, develop empathy to communicate more effectively at work, or practice negotiating with an AI avatar before an actual meeting with stakeholders. Virtual reality, combined with AI technology, allows you to enhance both your technical and interpersonal skills. It offers a realistic and controlled space to practice new behaviors and eliminate undesirable ones, ensuring you're better prepared for real-life challenges.

Conclusion

On a conclusive note, it would not be wrong to say that amid increased connectivity and the proliferation of access to educational resources, the mentioned processes associated with digitalization have not completely translated into ‘learning and unlearning for all.’ However, a portion of the onus comes down to personal will and aims. Therefore, learning and unlearning, as a skill, are developed through consciously utilizing the resources at one’s disposal to stay relevant in an increasingly dynamic and ever-changing livelihood landscape.