Thoughts on International & Global Education
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Musings on Japanese and Ryukyu Budo
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International & Global Education
We have all be exposed to them. At meetings, in public maybe even in the professional development arena. Those who can spout the latest catch phrases about such and such an ideology yet when question fail to understand the nuances of the situation they spout about or even undertand at a deep level the meaning of the terms they haphazardly throw around. They sit on all pasts of the spectrum and can, when unchecked, do incredible damage to staff morale and institutional integrity. They have listened to all the relevant podcast and they are armed...or so they think. Confidence is a great bedfellow for ignorance and hubris.
The surge in popularity of podcasts has introduced a wealth of information and diverse viewpoints, providing a convenient and accessible means for individuals to explore a wide array of subjects. Podcasts span everything from history and science to politics and popular culture, delivering valuable insights and often entertaining content. Nevertheless, while podcasts can be a valuable source of information and entertainment, there are reasons to exercise caution regarding what may be referred to as the "podcast intelligentsia" – individuals whose primary understanding of the world is shaped by podcasts, particularly when they have not delved deeply into the fields of their interest. Here are several reasons why a prudent approach is warranted: 1. Surface-Level Knowledge: Podcasts, by design, tend to provide succinct and simplified information, making it more accessible for listeners. While this is advantageous for ease of consumption, it can result in a superficial comprehension of complex topics. The limited duration of a podcast episode often means that the content merely scratches the surface, omitting critical nuances and details. 2. Absence of Context: Podcasts frequently present information in isolation, making it difficult for listeners to grasp the broader context of a subject. This lack of context can impede a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in any field. In contrast, delving into in-depth books or scholarly articles can furnish a more holistic perspective. 3. Overreliance on a Limited Spectrum of Sources: Podcasts typically depend on guest speakers and experts for insights. However, listeners may not always be aware of the biases or limitations of these sources. Relying exclusively on podcasts can result in a restricted range of voices and perspectives, potentially reinforcing pre-existing beliefs and hindering exposure to opposing viewpoints. 4. Confirmation Bias: Listening predominantly to podcasts that align with one's pre-existing beliefs can foster confirmation bias. Individuals might gravitate towards podcasts that validate their views while avoiding those that challenge them. This can contribute to an echo chamber effect, where one's perspective is never truly questioned or broadened. 5. Shallow Critical Thinking: In-depth reading and research frequently necessitate critical thinking and the ability to evaluate sources, evidence, and arguments. Podcasts, due to their spoken format, may not actively encourage the same level of analytical thinking. Passive listening can discourage active engagement with the content. 6. The Peril of Misinformation: Although many podcasts are meticulously researched and fact-based, the medium is not immune to misinformation and pseudoscience. Listeners who heavily rely on podcasts may be more susceptible to accepting unverified or false information. 7. Overlooking Unpopular or Specialised Topics: Podcasts tend to concentrate on mainstream and trending subjects to attract a broader audience. As a result, they may not address less mainstream or highly specialised topics, leaving listeners unaware of valuable information in niche areas. 8. Deficiency in Depth and Rigour: Academic disciplines and intricate issues often necessitate rigorous, in-depth exploration, typically found in books, research papers, and academic journals. Podcasts, while informative, may not provide the same level of depth and rigour. In summary, while podcasts can be a valuable resource for learning and entertainment, it is vital to approach them with a discerning mind and supplement them with other forms of information and education. The "podcast intelligentsia" should exercise caution in not replacing the depth and context that can be acquired through reading, academic research, and a diverse array of sources. An informed and nuanced perspective on the world often demands more than mere passive listening; it calls for active engagement and critical thinking, which can be cultivated through a blend of mediums, including books, articles, and scholarly resources. The key is to strike a balance between the convenience of podcasts and the deeper, contextual knowledge that other sources can provide. Indeed with the onset of mass media with their roots primarily is a US world view, with the odd smattering of the UK (on English platforms at least) we must be consistently mindful of "podcast intelligentsia". Okinawan and Japanese Budo
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James M. HatchInternational Educator who happens to be passionate about Chito Ryu Karate. Born in Ireland, educated in Canada, matured in Japan Archives
January 2025
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