Summary of Keynote: Unlearning - The Challenge of Change by Jessie Shternshus

In this engaging keynote presentation at RubyConf 2018, Jessie Shternshus explores the theme of unlearning as a critical component of adapting to change. She begins by emphasizing the importance of being ready to challenge and change our existing knowledge and mental frameworks.

Key Points Discussed:

• Unlearning as a Necessary Process:
  
  Shternshus defines unlearning as stepping outside of our existing mental models to discard outdated or ineffective knowledge. She argues that while we often focus on learning new skills, it is equally important to recognize when things no longer make sense and to let them go.

• The Nature of Change:
  
  The speaker highlights that change is a constant element of life and work environments, necessitating an ongoing process of unlearning. Shifting to accommodate new paradigms is presented not just as a necessity but as an integral part of personal and professional growth.

• Engaging Exercises:
  
  To illustrate her point, Shternshus conducts a participatory exercise that challenges attendees to read directional words aloud while following their representation on screen—a task that emphasizes the common struggle with cognitive dissonance and the importance of collaboration in overcoming challenges.

• Personal Anecdotes:
  
  Shternshus shares her own journey of unlearning through various roles, including her experience as a babysitter, a Disney character performer, and her time in education. Each role required her to adapt her approach and understanding, showcasing that unlearning is a long journey filled with lessons.

• Example from Agile Australia:
  
  She recounts a humorous anecdote from a recent experience at Agile Australia, illustrating a situation where an unlearning opportunity arose in a social context. This story showcases how unlearning is not limited to professional spaces but permeates daily interactions and behaviors.

Conclusions and Takeaways:

Shternshus concludes that being open to unlearning is essential in navigating the shifts and complexities of our environments. She encourages the audience to embrace change and consider the necessity of unlearning in their professional practices, leading to enhanced collaboration, communication, and creative problem-solving in their work and communities.

Overall, this keynote serves as a reminder that while we often seek to acquire new knowledge, the ability to unlearn is just as crucial for growth and adaptation in a rapidly changing world.