The FAST Academy Endorses Scientific and Technological Learning

The FAST Academy is, at bottom, a celebration of scientific and technological learning. It represents the idea that there is always something new to learn, and each new day presents learning opportunities. If there anything more pitiful than a person closed off to new experiences, who "knows it all" and refuses to take in new information? Children aren't that way - what happens to them when they get older and some of them switch off their natural curiosity? Children learn for learning's sake and they love science; unfortunately, too many adults need extra incentive, such as a paycheck, to wade into new areas of thought.

Athletes too are pushed by a desire to better themselves. Most of us don't have bodies that respond well to that level of effort, but that's not true of our minds. The brain is a remarkable thing, and unless damaged, stands ready to take on new information every day. That is, we really should all be "mind athletes". Imagine if you devoted just one hour a day to some scientific topic related to something you like - perhaps in your field of endeavor, a hobby, or a passionate curiosity. How long would it take for you to become knowledgeable in the area? Maybe months, maybe years - but that time will go by whether or not you are increasing your knowledge! You can't stop time, but you can put it to good use, and what better use of time than to make yourself science-savvy, more technologically aware, more knowledgeable?

Once you start down the road to increased scientific knowledge, you will never want to return to your ignorant ways. Your self-esteem will rise with your knowledge, and suddenly you will find yourself being sought out at social events and parties because you can speak on one or more topics with authority. This is not something anyone else can do for you; only you can expend the time and energy necessary to widen your own intellect. But the payoffs are huge.

We've already mentioned the social aspects. And generally, education and income are positively correlated. But there are other reasons to learn science as well. Perhaps the finest motivation is when one learns scientific knowledge or skills and then uses that knowledge to improve the world. Teachers of science and technology create the next generation of scientists who can use their knowledge to improve the lives of the sick and impoverished. Become a science teacher in an inner-city school and pass on your love of learning to young people who haven't been exposed to that type of enthusiasm. These are the ideals the FAST Academy encourages - why not begin your own scientific knowledge quest today?