What Is Knowledge
The English language dictionary defines knowledge as the association with facts, truths, and principles, that is derived through study, research and investigation. The process of acquiring knowledge involves numerous steps and methodologies, that includes observation, learning, reading and researching, developing a perception and view point, learning the art of communication and thus communicating, reasoning and creation of association.
Knowledge is said to be gained only when one understands any concept or event in depth, with a profound desire to acquire information and expertise in it. Typically, the acquisition of specific knowledge is for a specified purpose and seeks to resolve.
Effective communication is intrinsic to knowledge. Only with the help of it can one derive information from learned knowledgeable people. Through communication, doubts are addressed, learning is disseminated and misconceptions clarified.
Another significant technique is said to be writing. Experts say that through writing knowledge is transferred and thus it also crosses boundaries to have a world wide applicability. But certain schools of thought and scholars have rejected the importance of the written word. They claim that knowledge was dispensed even when the alphabet was not invented. And that our ancestors could do so effectively just by verbally communicating with the tribe.
Education is aimed at gaining knowledge. Institutions are aimed at dispensing quality learning to students and thus fulfill the objective of making students gain insight. Knowledge is not temporary or destructive. It is all pervasive and permanent. Once acquired, it stays with an individual. However, misuse and lack of interest can nullify its value and render it useless. Appropriate use of knowledge is thus as essential as is acquiring it. It can be forgotten, but is not dependent on this for its survival. The depth of knowledge increases as one goes on to higher levels. Therefore, the knowledge of things at the school level is very basic. At the under graduate level, it is more in detail. Post graduation means more specific knowledge and further studies, at the research level, is even more specific and in depth. Research involves constant trials and efforts to gain more and more information. It even involves at times, discovering new dimensions, experimentation, and innovating. It is an adventure for the intellectually inclined amongst humans.
Thus it will not be wrong to say that knowledge and education are Siamese twins, one is not possible without the other. A knowledge free education does not exist and is valueless. And education is the path to gain knowledge.
