Who Learns More, The Teacher Or The Student?

At home, at school, with friends, or anywhere education takes place.

The first time I heard this was at a lecture in high school. Attending were all the individuals running for a student body office. It was amazing to watch as questions were asked and answered. These were asked not just by the teacher but by former students who had been in leadership positions as well.

Education goes on all around us. We may be prepared to learn some of it. However, some knowledge we listen to with no intent or preparation to learn.

Besides teaching my employees, I first taught classes at the college level. As I prepared to teach three different classes, my mind returned to learning from the students. It was then I realized that the teacher learns so much more. As I was preparing, I found myself learning more than may be considered necessary. Why? I wanted to ensure that I was prepared to teach, no matter how the subject came about.

Later, as I reviewed the time spent in each class, I realized that the way in which each student discussed a subject was a chance for me to learn. This became true no matter the class or the level. Business, religion, education, or one-on-one, it was still the same. Now I realize that it was also a principle of teaching and learning.

Are we prepared to learn all the time?