Roger Ascham: 'Learning teacheth more in one year than experience in twenty.'

Learning teacheth more in one year than experience in twenty.

In his famous quote, Roger Ascham asserts that learning is more effective and impactful than experience. According to Ascham, one year of dedicated learning can teach a person more than what they could learn through twenty years of purely experiential knowledge. This means that the process of actively engaging with knowledge, acquiring new skills, and seeking out information is superior to relying solely on practical experience to shape one's understanding of the world.The importance of Ascham's quote lies in its recognition of the transformative power of education. Learning, whether formal or informal, provides individuals with the opportunity to expand their horizons and attain a deeper understanding of various subjects. It exposes them to new ideas, perspectives, and ways of thinking that may not have been accessible through mere experience alone. By actively pursuing knowledge, individuals are able to accelerate their personal growth and development.However, it is worth exploring an unexpected philosophical concept to add further interest to the article. Let us consider the idea that learning and experience are not necessarily mutually exclusive, but rather two complementary aspects of personal growth. While experience can provide valuable insights and hands-on understanding, learning enables individuals to contextualize and make sense of those experiences.Imagine a scenario where someone travels to a foreign country without any prior knowledge or learning about the local customs, language, or culture. Their experience alone may lead to a superficial understanding of the place, leaving them with a limited perspective. In contrast, someone who has spent time learning about the country's history, customs, and language before embarking on the journey would be better equipped to fully appreciate and immerse themselves in the local culture. By combining the power of learning and experience, the individual gains a richer understanding of the world they encounter.Moreover, learning allows us to build upon the experiences and knowledge of others. It provides access to the cumulative wisdom of countless generations, enabling us to stand on the shoulders of giants and learn from their successes and failures. Through books, lectures, and conversations, we can tap into the insights and expertise that have been collected across time in various fields of study. This collective learning saves us from having to reinvent the wheel and gives us the ability to progress further and faster.While experience undoubtedly has its merits, especially in certain practical pursuits, it is through learning that we can transcend our limitations and reach new heights of understanding. It equips us with critical thinking skills, enhances our creativity, and helps us make informed decisions. In the words of Ascham, learning provides the pathway to accelerated growth and a deeper comprehension of the world around us.In conclusion, Roger Ascham's quote highlights the profound impact that learning can have on an individual's personal growth and understanding of the world. It emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with knowledge and seeking out opportunities to expand our horizons. While experience undeniably plays a significant role in shaping our understanding, learning complements and enhances it by allowing us to contextualize and make sense of our experiences. By embracing the transformative power of education, we can embark on a journey of continuous learning and discover the immense potential it holds.