Alvin Toffler, the author of Future Shock, Third Wave and Revolutionary wealth has an unusual gift. He defines the forces that shape our future in ways that help audiences shape their own future. If the forces that shaped 20th century literacy had more or less to do with the ability of masses to learn to read and write through the works of many of the pioneers of the 20th century the 21st century holds something else. Alvin predicts ‘the illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn’.
What a coincidence that has with COL! Circle of learning advocates the same thought that Alvin predicted, but goes one more step to really tell you how one can become relevant by following the principle of COL on a continuous basis.
Confucius says ‘to know what is right and not to do it is the worst cowardice’. Hence, I have become a proponent of this COL concept from ground-up. This is one of my ways to pay tribute to my father who initiated me to the learning process in the early stages of my childhood which has become an integral part of my life even today to continue doing the same with whosoever showing interest to learn.
‘Left un-attended, knowledge and skill, like all assets depreciate in value, and, surprisingly quickly’ to quote from David Maister, author of many books on business including ‘Practice what you Preach’ and ‘True Professionalism’. When you follow the principles of COL, these assets will never diminish value rather will appreciate over time and while embracing the continuous learning process that is at the core of COL principles.
Training, coaching and mentoring are other methods that follow the COL principles to keep these assets appreciating and these are the essential methods that a knowledge
worker of the 21st century must continuously adapt to remain relevant.