June 11, 2010
Types of learning
I was listening to NPR’s OnPoint podcast today. The theme was the differences between Western free markets and Eastern style state directed “capitalism”. One of the guests noted that Chinese higher education systems are focused on rote memorization, while US higher education is not. In my experience, this is at the heart of the difference between Chinese and Western martial arts.
I’ve given a lot of thought to the differences in training in Chinese arts – where I started – and Western arts – which I study now. I have practiced various styles under three Chinese schools of martial arts. The traditional teachers focused on memorization of form as a method to learn core principles. I have heard it is much the same for learning any skill – calligraphy, cooking, etc.
More recently I have studied Western boxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Krav Maga. In all of these cases, the core principles are taught along with individual techniques that implement them. There are no forms – sets of linked movements – in any of these styles. That I know of, at least.
The speaker on OnPoint was making the case that the Western style of learning led to more innovation. My own experience in martial arts seems to bear this out. All of the Chinese styles I have studied adhere fairly strictly to tradition and doing things the same way as they have always been done. The Western styles are constantly evolving, adding new techniques and getting rid of old ones as the world changes around them. Granted this may be a result of teachers more than style. Except in the case of Krav Maga – innovation is a core principle in that case.
Food for thought…
Peace,
Brad
Danielle said,
July 1, 2010 at 10:56 AM
I can see value in both innovation and tradition. I feel that both progression and tradition are needed in balance with each other, and I have a hard time placing more value on one or another. Yet, I come from a family in which there is very little tradition… so maybe my perspective is more of a “grass is always greener” perspective.