In this episode, Lu Ngo delves into the captivating topic of education and personal development with Carlin Lee, a seasoned psychologist, educator, and founder of SG Psych Stuff. The episode is an inspiring and practical discussion about nurturing a love of learning and its broader implications for personal growth and well-being.
He is an experienced practitioner and educator in psychology with 2 decades of dedicated service working with youth. A registered psychologist and approved clinical supervisor, he has spent the past 14 years teaching psychology students at the tertiary level.
Carlin manages a counseling team in an educational institution and is deeply involved in volunteer work within the Singapore psychological community. He serves as the President of SG Psych Stuff, a society established in 2011 that specializes in guiding students through their psychological training journeys, offering flagship mentorship and career advisory programs.
A key theme explored in this episode is the distinction between curiosity and the love of learning. Carlin emphasizes that the love of learning involves a deliberate and structured approach. For instance, it requires asking “what,” “why,” and “how,” while simultaneously developing a purposeful relationship with knowledge.
Moreover, a recurring theme throughout the episode is the critical role of educators and parents in fostering a love for learning. For example, he shares personal anecdotes of his early passion for studying Mandarin, not because of grades but due to the intrinsic joy of discovery.
In addition, parents have an equally important part to play. Carlin stresses the value of shared learning experiences, such as reading alongside children, to build strong bonds and instill a lifelong passion for knowledge. By doing so, parents can foster both emotional connections and a deeper appreciation for learning.
Furthermore, the discussion taps into the crucial concepts of autonomy and intrinsic motivation—cornerstones of self-driven learning. Carlin connects these ideas to broader psychological frameworks, emphasizing that autonomy, competence, and relatedness are key to nurturing deep, sustainable motivation. This triad, in turn, encourages students to feel capable, self-directed, and connected, making learning a rewarding experience.
Finally, Carlin critiques traditional education systems that prioritize penalties over rewards. Instead, he proposes integrating extrinsic and intrinsic motivators, such as celebrating early submissions or unique approaches to assignments. By striking this balance, the approach could empower self-driven learners who thrive outside the classroom.
He argues that it’s never too late to reignite the love for learning. He introduces his LEN framework, a simple yet effective tool for students and lifelong learners alike:
By the end of the episode, you’ll feel inspired to reconsider your learning methods and be equipped with a set of approaches to foster genuine enthusiasm for them. If you’re an educator, a parent, or someone looking to rekindle your passion for knowledge, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
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