First Generation Learners
Learning
Who are precisely first-generation learners? Who are they? Who defines someone as a first-generation learner? And are they really first-generation learners?
Recently, I applied for PhD positions in Philosophy in the USA, and I really found the term first-generation learners disturbing while filling in my background details. The term in the application was mainly used for people who are first-person in their families, appearing in college, or for graduate studies. So, per my thought, the US education system defines first-generation learners as someone
Who is the first person in the family to go college or students whose parents did not earn a Bachelor’s degree?
My curiosity began about whether I am really a first-generation learner. As per the Western education system, I might be.
In my opinion, education is not a format or a degree that can be recognised by an institution. Going back to people who are not recognised as educated on the basis of their degrees, though there are educational institutions for methodological learning, not everyone is privileged to attend one. People learn basic techniques and ways of earning through informal education without attending any educational institutions. Are they not learners? What should we call them?
A degree is, without any doubt, a formal way of learning and gives you recognition in modern society. However, education in an informal way is also as respectful as education in a formal way (degree way).
Let’s try to understand this from the point of view of an Adivasi in the modern era. Let’s take the example of a 100-year-old Adivasi family; a grandfather is the eldest in the family, followed by the father and his son. Father is making his livelihood the same way grandfather used to. The main occupations of a father and grandfather are farming, hunting, crafting baskets, nets, and other things made of jute; they speak three languages. On the other hand, the son has attended formal school education and is the first person to attend college.
In this example, we can clearly see the reflection of education in two generational ways. Father was undoubtedly well-talented and educated, and he could make and sell his baskets and support his family without any formal education. However, son one went to school. So, is he still a first-generation learner? Does his father’s education and work have no recognition in society?
The term’ first-generation learners’ is one that deeply troubles me. Despite the Western education system, we often fail to acknowledge or appreciate the learning that takes place outside of formal institutions. This lack of respect and recognition for informal learning is a significant issue that needs to be addressed.
Do share your comments on first-generation learners. I would love to read your comments and thoughts, even if they are not similar to mine.
