Comment by LooseMarmoset
13 hours ago
I think that this is actually a good thing. If everyone had the same internal world model, we would have very little innovation.
I try to train and mentor those that are junior to me. I try to show them what is possible, and patterns that result in failure. This training is often piecemeal and incomplete. As much as I can, I communicate why I do the things I do, but there are very few things I tell them not to do.
I am often surprised at the way people I have trained solve problems, and frequently I learn things myself.
Training is less successful for those who aren’t interested in their own contributions, and who view the job only as a means to get paid. I am not saying those people are wrong to think that way, but building a world view of work based on disinterest isn’t going to let people internalize training.
I agree. It's pretty easy to train based on facts, and even experiences. And learners can often take things in unexpected directions.
I think it becomes difficult to train the next layer up though, which is a sum-total of life experience. And I think this is what the parent poster was referring to.
For example, I read a lot of Agatha Christie growing up. At school I participated in problem-solving groups, focusing on ways to "think" about problems. And I read Mark Clifton's "Eight keys to Eden".
All of that means I approach bug-fixing in a specific mental way. I approach it less as "where is the bug" and more like "how would I get this effect if I was wanting to do it". It's part detective novel, part change in perspective, part logical progression.
So yes, training is good, and I agree that needs to be one. But I can not really teach "the way I think". That's the product of a misspent youth, life experience, and ingrained mental patterns.