Published 26 November 2024

“So, I teach languages and when I first started learning languages, I looked at it as a puzzle, like a black and white puzzle, of ‘this verb can only be conjugated in these ways when matched with these subject pronouns.’ I really looked at it like it was a black and white logic puzzle. But after many more years of studying languages, I’ve learned more about the humanistic side behind languages. It’s not one person one day sitting down and creating one language then everyone has to learn the same rules. It’s a collective building of the rules and there’s a lot of messy things to language, of why we say this and we don’t say that, and the connotations words have. So, all of that messy side to language is really my favorite thing to talk about in class. So, for example, talking about the prosodic features like stress and rhythm and intonation and what that can change about what you’re saying is really interesting to explore, especially in English since a lot of languages don’t have the same kind of system that we have in English, stressing words and stressing syllables and that part is always my favorite because it’s really frustrating as a student, but as a person who has learned French and Spanish and had to just accept those rules sometimes, that there are two sides to language: There are many rules that we have to follow. There are certain things you can’t do, that don’t make sense, that don’t really break the rules in a way that is acceptable, and then there are so many exceptions to those rules.”

— Cal Powers

(In Ep #0 of the Professionall Pathways Podcast | Cal’s Journey into Teacher Education)

Learning is rarely a linear process. Whether it's mastering a new language, developing professional skills, or picking up a hobby, the journey often involves confusion, trial and error, and moments of frustration. Yet, within this messiness lies the beauty of growth.

Take language learning, for example. As the quote describes, at first glance, it can seem like a rigid puzzle of rules. Subject pronouns align with specific verb conjugations, and grammar appears to be a black-and-white system. But as we dive deeper, we encounter the nuances: cultural connotations, regional variations, idiomatic expressions, and the influence of rhythm and stress. These complexities are what make language—–and learning—–so fascinating.

Why Embrace the Messy Side of Learning?

Messiness often feels uncomfortable because it defies the structured approach we expect in education. However, research shows that navigating this ambiguity builds resilience, adaptability, and critical thinking. Mezirow’s (1997) transformative learning theory emphasizes the importance of disorienting dilemmas—–situations that challenge our assumptions and force us to make sense of complexity. These moments of frustration can lead to profound learning and personal growth.

In language education, this messiness is exemplified through exceptions to rules, idiomatic usage, and pronunciation nuances. Exploring these "exceptions" encourages students to think creatively and see beyond the rigidity of rules. Similarly, in other fields, tackling challenges that don’t have straightforward solutions prepares us for real-world scenarios where adaptability is key.

The Role of Mistakes in Learning

Carol Dweck’s (2006) work on growth mindset underlines the idea that learning involves failure. When students struggle with complex tasks, such as understanding prosodic features in English or mastering an unfamiliar concept, they are actively engaging in the learning process. Embracing mistakes as part of the journey fosters a positive attitude toward lifelong learning.

Language educators often highlight the importance of trial and error. Mispronunciations and grammar mistakes aren’t setbacks; they’re opportunities to refine understanding and practice. A willingness to grapple with the messy parts of language creates deeper connections and fluency over time.

Beyond Language: Life Lessons in the Chaos

The messiness of learning mirrors the complexity of life. Just as language evolves through collective use, so do our skills and knowledge grow through collective experiences. Learning to navigate ambiguity doesn’t just improve our technical skills—–it teaches patience, humility, and the ability to persevere.

When students confront the messiness of language or any subject, they develop critical life skills. They learn to manage frustration, seek help, and celebrate small victories. These qualities are invaluable in any field, from teaching to engineering to business.

Five Practical Tips for Navigating Messy Learning

Reframe Frustration as Growth: Remind yourself that frustration signals progress. Lean into discomfort as an indicator that you're pushing boundaries.
Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge milestones, no matter how minor. Each step forward builds momentum.
Ask Questions and Stay Curious: Dive into the “why” behind the messiness. Why do exceptions exist? Why is this concept challenging? Curiosity leads to understanding.
Use Mistakes as Feedback: Instead of fearing errors, view them as insights into what needs refinement.
Reflect Regularly: Document your learning journey. Reflecting on challenges and triumphs helps you appreciate how far you’ve come.

The messy side of learning is where true growth happens. By embracing frustration, navigating ambiguity, and viewing challenges as opportunities, both students and educators can unlock deeper understanding and resilience. This process mirrors the unpredictability of life itself, teaching us patience, adaptability, and the value of persistence. Whether you’re learning a language, mastering a new skill, or tackling a professional challenge, leaning into the chaos can transform frustration into progress and setbacks into stepping stones. So, let’s celebrate the imperfections in learning—–they’re not just part of the journey; they’re the essence of it.

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