An opinion was put forward, that since there were already resources available that broke down learning that was supposed to happen in the classroom, educators should just use what was at hand instead of "reinventing the wheel."
Now, I am a self-professed wheel "reinventer," and this comment got me thinking. We often hear the phrase "Don't reinvent the wheel." Is this, in fact, a statement of wisdom?
Flickr - Joan Grifols |
"Ignorance is bliss" is another phrase that we often come across, and it is one that I disagree with wholeheartedly. My argument is, if you eat a poisoned mushroom because you have no idea it's poisonous and get sick, bliss is probably the last thing you'd be feeling.
So - the wheel. In my opinion, it is only by "reinventing" that we progress. Let's take this at face value. When the concept of "the wheel" was first conceived, it was made out of that most versatile and basic of materials - wood. Now, just imagine, if you will, what would have happened if the wooden wheel had never been reinvented; and not just once, but again, and again! Wheels underwent many transformations, including materials, construction, etc. And what would have happened if they hadn't? Well, we certainly wouldn't be driving around in cars and relaxing on bicycles, or even flying in airplanes!
Lets use this lens to examine other areas; buildings, furniture, clothing, roads, appliances, objects that give off light, machines that give off heat or cool air etc. etc. aren't these all "reinventions?" Even when it comes to the less tangible aspects of our lives; literature, art, music - inspiration is built on what has come before.
Flickr - Simply CVR |
Flickr - Pete |
The wheel is constantly being reinvented. And a good thing, too.
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"Elephant" by 4-year-old me.
"Rabbit" by 7-year-old me.
"Swan Dance" by "Many-years-later" me.
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