Unit 1 B CREATIVITY: ACQUIRING KNOWLEDGE


1 Read the article and answer the questions. Sugata Mitra says that the internet makes knowledge obsolete, but are knowledge


and information the same thing, and how can you acquire knowledge?


a How did Tarek acquire his knowledge? b What is his view of knowledge compared to information?


‘I work as an Offshore Client Representative for oil companies. That means I am the eyes and ears of the company on the platform or vessel they are using to carry out a specific task, such as repairing underwater wells or laying pipes.


I am responsible for making sure that the work is carried out safely and efficiently. I started out working as a diver in the Caspian Sea oil fields 35 years ago, and I spent 25 years doing underwater engineering work. It’s a challenging environment in the Caspian Sea.


I’ve seen accidents, both underwater and on vessels, which took place when people were careless or didn’t follow procedures. Sadly, in some cases, these accidents were fatal. When you’ve lost colleagues that way, it makes you very aware of the need for strict safety procedures. About a decade ago, I stopped working underwater myself and moved into the job I’m doing now. Recently, the oil companies have started using inexperienced people and young graduates straight out of university to work as Client Representatives. They’re usually very bright kids, with top-notch degrees in Offshore Engineering, but it’s theoretical learning. They don’t spot obvious potential dangers because they haven’t got hands-on experience and do not have the confidence to speak up when they do. Real long-term experience and knowledge is necessary to be a Client Representative that will do a reliable job in all situations.’


Tarek, 59 2 In pairs. Discuss the questions.


a In what other ways do people acquire knowledge? b Do you think knowledge is always superior to information? If not, in what situations is it not?


English for the 21st Century • Unit 1 23


C21 skills


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