A recent interaction sparked a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of knowledge and its value in our lives. A woman who reached out to me on social media, after being drawn to my profile, assumed that my knowledge was purely academic.

It's a misconception that the only valuable knowledge is academic or scientific – knowledge that is quantifiable and qualified. As an educator, I’m aware that education systems often reinforce this belief, prioritising formal learning over organic, experiential learning. There is, however, immense value in the latter.

Consider the "sitting with Nelly" method used in Australia in the early 1900s for training teachers. This approach involved apprenticeship, where trainee teachers – such as my grandmother - learned by observing and assisting experienced teachers in the classroom. They gained practical skills and insights without formal psychological training or academic instruction. This method underscores the significance of learning through observation and experience.

Women, in particular, embody the essence of this kind of knowledge acquisition. The skills and insights gained, for example, from motherhood and managing a household, often while juggling jobs, are profound. These experiences teach conflict resolution, collaboration, and management – skills not derived from textbooks but from the 'coal face' of life.

Historically, knowledge has been passed down orally, with written records being a relatively recent phenomenon. Indigenous cultures, for instance, continue to rely heavily on oral traditions to transmit knowledge. This form of knowledge transfer, though less formal, is rich in wisdom and depth.

The workplace often undervalues such experiential knowledge, favouring academic credentials instead. While I appreciate and engage in academic learning myself, I recognise the immense worth of life lessons. The knowledge gained through personal struggles, observations of others, and self-reflection is invaluable.

Women, in particular, possess a unique "superpower" in this regard. The knowledge we acquire through living, reflecting, and learning from life is often overlooked or undervalued, sometimes even by the women themselves. It's crucial to acknowledge that this experiential knowledge is as valid as any academic learning.



It is important we broaden our perspective on what constitutes valuable knowledge. We need to appreciate and value knowledge from all sources – be it academic institutions, personal experiences, or the wisdom passed down through generations. By embracing this inclusive approach to learning, we can enrich our understanding and appreciation of the world and the diverse experiences of those within it.