Why We Need Simple Language in Education: Making Learning Open to Everyone

Why We Need Simple Language in Education: Making Learning Open to Everyone

Imagine being really interested in learning something new—maybe it’s science, history, or how computers work. But then, when you open the book or start the video, you’re met with big, complicated words that make it all confusing and frustrating. You’re not alone if this has happened to you. Many people feel blocked from understanding new topics because of “jargon.”

What is Jargon?

Jargon is a type of language that uses very specific, sometimes complicated words that are only understood by people who are already familiar with a subject. For example, in medicine, a doctor might say “myocardial infarction” when they really mean “heart attack.” Or a scientist might talk about “quantum entanglement” when describing a complex idea in physics.

For those in these fields, these words are useful and can make conversations quicker and more precise. But for the rest of us, it can feel like a foreign language. This is why jargon can act as a gatekeeping tool, meaning it sometimes prevents people from understanding or accessing knowledge they might actually be interested in.

Why Jargon Can Be a Barrier to Learning

When teachers, scientists, or professionals use complicated language, it can make learning feel difficult or even impossible. Imagine wanting to understand climate change, but every article or video is filled with terms you’ve never heard before. This can make people feel like the information isn’t meant for them and that they’ll never understand it. It creates a feeling of distance between “experts” and “regular people,” and that isn’t fair or helpful.

If we want to make education accessible to everyone, we need to use words that everyone can understand. This way, more people can get involved in important conversations, make informed decisions, and feel confident in learning about new things. And isn’t that what education is all about?

Why We Still Need Some Technical Terms

Now, it’s important to say that not all jargon is bad. Some fields, like science, medicine, or engineering, do need specific terms to be accurate. For example, if a scientist is explaining a complicated process, they might need to use certain words to make sure they’re explaining it correctly. Sometimes, there isn’t a simpler word that can convey the exact same meaning, so a technical term is the best choice.

But, even when these words are needed, teachers and experts can still take the time to explain them in simple terms first. This way, everyone can understand what’s being discussed, and no one feels left out of the conversation.

Why Using Simple Language Matters

1. It Makes Knowledge Accessible: When we use simple words, more people can understand and join the conversation. This is important because it allows more people to learn and grow. Education shouldn’t be something only a few people can access—knowledge is for everyone!

2. It Builds Confidence: When people can understand a topic, they feel more confident to keep learning and exploring. If we simplify language, we give more people the confidence to try new things and dig deeper.

3. It Encourages Curiosity: When things are easier to understand, people are more likely to get curious and ask questions. By keeping language simple, we open the door for more people to be excited about learning.

4. It Reduces Barriers: Simple language removes the feeling that knowledge is only for certain people. By using common language, we make it clear that education is for everyone, not just experts or people with advanced degrees.

How We Can Use Simple Language More Often

If you’re a teacher, a student, or just someone who loves learning, here are some ways to promote using simple language:

• Use Plain Language First, Then Add Details: Start with simple explanations, then build up to more complicated ideas. This way, everyone can follow along and feel ready for the next steps.

• Explain New Terms Right Away: When you introduce a new or technical word, take a moment to explain it in common language. This way, people won’t feel lost.

• Encourage Questions: Invite others to ask questions whenever they don’t understand something. Make it clear that there are no “silly” questions—learning is about understanding, not already knowing everything.

Knowledge Belongs to Everyone

Using simple language doesn’t mean we’re “dumbing down” information; it means we’re being clear and making learning open to everyone. It’s okay to have some technical words where they’re needed, but let’s make sure we’re welcoming as many people into the conversation as possible.

Knowledge is powerful, and everyone deserves the chance to understand and be a part of it. By using words that everyone can understand, we’re helping more people feel connected, curious, and capable of learning about the world around them. Let’s make sure that knowledge doesn’t feel like a closed door, but an open path where everyone is invited to learn.