Blog Post # 8

What Can We Learn About Teaching and 

Learning From Randy Pausch?

    Randy Pausch was a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon Univeristy. He was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer and after being given a terminal diagnosis he decided to give "The Last Lecture: Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams". This lecture became extremely popular and has reached many people. It was a very touching and humorous lecture in which Randy discussed his childhood dreams, how he achieved them, and how he helped others achieve theirs. This is an inspiring video about living life. It was interesting to see how he was able to achieve all of his childhood dreams and the obstacles he overcame along the way. He believed in having fun in what you are doing. 

- Randy Pausch

    One of the things he talked about that stood out to me was what he call the "head fake." He said "the best way to teach somebody something is to have them think they are learning something else." I thought this was a neat concept of getting someone to learn something that might not necessarily interest them. He also said "remember brick walls let us show our dedication. They are there to separate us from the people who don't really want to achieve their childhood dreams." What a great way to view the obstacles that come in life. I had never thought to think of them in that way!  And likely my most favorite quote from Randy Pausch is "don't complain, just work harder." I have never been a fan of complaining. I try hard not to complain about anything and be thankful for everything. Complaining only focuses on the negative and it can become a really bad habit that can drain the happiness from yourself and those around you. If you're looking for a little inspiration and entertainment I would recommend that you watch Randy Pausch's last lecture video. It is sad to think that he is no longer on this earth to continue innovating and helping others to reach their dreams. However, I think he will continue to impact people through the legacy he leaves behind.