4 ms·
> Why is it so hard to accept that domain transfer does not exist. I think, because, that's simply not true. The question is really "to what extent does domai
by benrbray 6y ago
> Why is it so hard to accept that domain transfer does not exist.
I think, because, that's simply not true. The question is really "to what extent does domain transfer exist, and how can we exploit it?"
> If kids learn chess for a few years, they won't be better at mathematics. After five years of practicing Violin kids don't find learning a foreign language easier.
If kids spend several years on intentional practice of chess or violin, they're also practicing discipline. Compared to kids who spend these years unfocused, I'm guessing this group will have an easier time learning math or French simply because they have better learning habits.
- EL_Loco 6y agoOk, I agree, but is a kid who spent several years on intentional chess practice better academically then a kid who spent several years on intentional math practice?
- benrbray 6y agoI think that depends on a lot of factors, and I wouldn't want to judge one way or the other. Perhaps a kid who spends several years in chess clubs and really enjoys it is better off academically+socially than a kid forced by their parents to compete in math tournaments against their will, simply because the latter will have better emotional maturity and a support system to help them succeed later in life. Speaking to my own experiences, I can say my parents encouraged me to hyper-optimize for grades and academics, but that I missed out on a lot of other, irreplaceable experiences growing up. My parents taught me to look down on people who choose sports, theater, etc. over academics, but as an adult I see just how formative those activities can be when it comes to soft skills like teamwork and leadership.