Learning what we don't know we don't know refers to the things we are unaware of and haven't even considered as part of our learning process, but these are the gems that make up most of what there is to know in the world; magical information that can make life become more alive!
The idea is often associated with four levels of knowledge, the first 2 being relatively straightforward:
Known Knowns: These are the things we know we know. They represent the knowledge and information that we are aware of and have already learned.
Known Unknowns: These are the things we know we don't know. It includes the gaps in our knowledge where we are aware that certain information or skills exist, but we haven't acquired them yet.
Unknown Unknowns: These are the things we don't know we don't know. They represent the areas of knowledge or skills that we are completely unaware of, and we don't even know that there are gaps in our understanding because we have no knowledge of their existence.
Conscious Unknowns: This is a variation of the previous levels, representing the realization that there might be unknown unknowns. It involves being open to the possibility that there are things we don't know, which we don't even know we don't know.
To begin to enter the realm of learning what we don't know we don't know, we can take various approaches:
Be curious and open-minded: Embrace a growth mindset and be open to exploring new subjects, ideas, perspectives, and, perhaps most importantly, areas of discomfort (for example, instead of standing in being right, what could become accessible by pulling the thread on something you believe is wrong?). Curiosity will drive you to unconceal new knowledge.
Proactively seek feedback: Engage in discussions with knowledgeable individuals, teachers, coaches, or peers who can expose your blind spots and areas where you might be lacking perspective.
Read widely: Expose yourself to a diverse range of topics, disciplines, and sources of information. This helps broaden your understanding and increases the chances of creating new questions and discovering new unknowns.
Embrace lifelong learning: Recognize that learning never has a finish line. Stay humble and acknowledge that there will always be more to uncover.
Challenge your own assumptions: Be critical of your existing knowledge and beliefs. Questioning what you think you know can help reveal areas where you lack awareness.
Reflect and self-assess: Regularly take time to reflect on your learning journey and be honest with yourself about areas where you may have gaps in your knowledge.
Embrace uncertainty: Be comfortable with the idea that there may be things you are unaware of, and that's okay.
Remember: there is not one single person on this planet who knows everything there is to know), and the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong journey. Embracing the unknown and being open to continuous learning will help you gain greater access to what you don't know you don't know.
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