What’s that? Well, it’s what those individuals who have not had the good fortune to study at a “good” university would call experience.
We have heard on this blog that the delivery of many academic courses in Third World Countries can be abysmal, using outdated material, and presented by those with little knowledge of the practical application of the subject matter. It’s inexcusable, but the same paper qualifications are essential requirements by employers, irrespective of their value.

As an employer myself, my view is that an individual who is motivated to follow self-directed learning demonstrates dedication and character strength. I consider that those who have chosen to study in this way are more mature and committed and hence more employable.

We heard from one of the authors that he chose to drop out of his course and take responsibility for his learning. While that is both admirable and courageous, you should remember that it will only work when one is prepared and ruthlessly disciplined about managing your time, study, and life in general.

So, when it comes to employment, which comes first? Experience or theory? And how to get experience? You need the expertise to get the job you want, and you need a job to get the experience.

It’s a puzzle exaggerated for those without formal qualifications. Some professions, such as a pharmacist, are predominantly practical but they require a substantial underpinning theoretical knowledge. In this example, both theory and practice are essential. However, that is not always the case: customer-orientated services need a much more practical approach and one best learned on-the-job.

I do not have a magic answer: there isn’t one. But I do know that if you are willing to work and remember that all experience is valuable in some sense, the path you choose can be flexible, and not necessarily bound by academic constraints.

https://ogpar.is/university-of-life-is-practicality-worth-it/

Nice piece