Teaching Tools vs. Teaching Skills

There’s a difference between teaching tools and teaching skills. Skills are focused on the outcome. Tools are focused on the process. In some fields, learning the tools is extremely valuable. Trades like electrical, engineering, plumbing, automotive, and other fields require a deep knowledge of tools.

But tools change. If you want to be really good, you need skills. Any designer can use Photoshop to create an ad. It takes skill to create an ad that sells products. Anyone can use an oven, but it takes a great chef to cook the perfect steak.

Unfortunately, today’s higher education system isn’t very good at teaching skills or tools.