‘Common sense’ can benefit from instruction

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At the Spokane County Library District blog, librarian Aileen Luppert provides a much needed affirmation that “common sense” behaviors are very often learned. In her piece titled, “Don’t Be That Guy (in the Workplace),” she presents “common sense” advice for making and keeping a good impression on-the-job.

As a woman on the autism spectrum (and also a fledgling library professional), I struggle to decipher the “unspoken” rules in unfamiliar situations. Luppert’s essay suggests this difficulty is not limited to the autism spectrum alone, but encompasses the broader population.

I appreciate Luppert for recognizing the value in providing explicit instruction for what people are “assumed” to know. As more people become open to the concept that “common sense” behaviors are taught, the more tolerant they will be and more willing to correct instead of condemn social lapses.

Also published on LinkedIn.com and Library 2.0