Lajal: The Lost Art of Unstructured Learning




In a world driven by standardized tests and structured curricula, the importance of unstructured learning is often overlooked. "Lajal" is a Persian word that captures the essence of learning without formal instruction.

Lajal is a playful curiosity, a child's eagerness to explore the world with their own hands. It's the joy of discovering something new, not because we're told to, but because it sparks a flame within us.

As children, we're naturally curious. We play with blocks, build sandcastles, and chase butterflies. We learn through experimentation and discovery, fueled by our imagination and the world around us. However, as we grow older, formal education often stifles this lajal.

Remember the last time you learned something new because it fascinated you?
  • When was the last time you explored a different perspective without being prompted?
  • Lajal requires us to step outside of our structured routines and embrace the unknown. It's about rediscovering the joy of learning for its own sake, even when it doesn't fit into a specific curriculum.

    Some may argue that unstructured learning is a luxury that only the privileged can afford. But lajal is not about resources; it's about a mindset. We can all find opportunities for unstructured learning in our daily lives.

    Read a book outside of your comfort zone.
  • Take a walk in a new neighborhood and observe your surroundings.
  • Engage in conversations with people from different backgrounds.
  • By embracing lajal, we not only expand our knowledge but also cultivate our creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. It's a philosophy that fosters lifelong learning and keeps our minds agile and curious.

    In a world where knowledge is constantly evolving, it's more important than ever to encourage lajal. Let's reclaim the joy of learning for its own sake and nurture the innate curiosity that resides within all of us. Let's rediscover the beauty of "lajal."

    After all, as the Persian proverb goes, "The intelligent person learns more from their mistakes than from their successes."