Do we need to “de-emphasize memorization” in education?
This comment was made by a speaker at a conference I recently attended. I am sure that I have made a variation of it myself.
Is it wrong? Probably not.
Is it helpful? Also, probably not.
Here is why.
Let’s say half of the audience in front of you agrees with this statement. By default, that means the other half disagrees.
Does that statement bring people closer together or drive them apart?
My take is the latter.
Now, I do like to say things that might be abrupt and create some discomfort. Change only happens when we feel it is necessary (whether we initiate it ourselves or not), and I have believed this for a substantial part of my adult life.
So, instead of focusing on the idea that we should “de-emphasize memorization,” which may push people apart, where do we bring people together while, perhaps, moving them forward?
My own language has shifted from the idea of getting rid of a focus on memorization to embracing the idea of our learners developing understanding.
For example, if you memorize something, it doesn’t mean you understand it. But if you understand a concept by default, you will likely memorize it.
The people who believe that we should de-emphasize memorization are validated and perhaps challenged that knowing basic information is crucial in our pursuit of developing wisdom.
The people who believe memorization is crucial lose nothing from their belief systems but are VERY unlikely to disagree with the idea that understanding isn’t essential (if they do, this might be an issue!).
Through subtle phrasing shifts, you bring people together and forward.
Instead of focusing on what people will lose, shift the thinking to what they have to gain.
Together and forward. That is the goal.
