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I also question the value of retraining programs, because I think that most people are capable of learning new things. I was a D student in high school, and I

I also question the value of retraining programs, because I think that most people are capable of learning new things. I was a D student in high school, and I didn't get my undergraduate degree until I was 30. I learn new and interesting things every single day. I really don't think I'm especially intelligent, and so if I can do it, why can't others? The things you can learn for free through Khan Academy and all sorts of other free online learning platforms are pretty incredible. We have a great number of public libraries. Just a month ago, I was able to check out two books on structural engineering from my local public library. None of this stuff cost me anything! What's the difference between me and other people? If there is one, it's that I have a different philosophical approach than some others in my cohort. I don't believe that learning is something you do for awhile before you live your real life. EDIT: On the other hand, perhaps I am wrong! I know that I have also benefitted from classroom instruction (once I had made the shift in my mind give learning another shot), and that there are others that have different learning styles. I don't mean to neglect anyone in my rubric here.

mmcconnell1618 7y ago
Ironically, our school system in the US was largely designed to create passive factory line workers who did not think for themselves or take initiative. You might even say school was designed to create robots out of people who are now going be replaced by more efficient mechanical robots. I agree that most people have the capacity to learn a new trade but they haven't had to exercise that ability for many years. Retraining programs can't inject new skills into people's brains but they can setup a path for people to learn those skills if they are motivated. For the vast majority of people, being out of work is a huge motivator to do something, we just need to give them a little breathing room with their bills and life so they can focus.

mmcconnell1618 7y ago

Ironically, our school system in the US was largely designed to create passive factory line workers who did not think for themselves or take initiative. You might even say school was designed to create robots out of people who are now going be replaced by more efficient mechanical robots. I agree that most people have the capacity to learn a new trade but they haven't had to exercise that ability for many years. Retraining programs can't inject new skills into people's brains but they can setup a path for people to learn those skills if they are motivated. For the vast majority of people, being out of work is a huge motivator to do something, we just need to give them a little breathing room with their bills and life so they can focus.