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Evolution.
Evolution is defined as a gradual development,
especially towards a more complex form.
My name's Nick Barratt. I'm a medieval historian
but probably best known
for my work in programmes such as Who Do You Think You Are?
To a lot of people evolution means a very scientific process
particularly the link with Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.
But for me it's a learning process.
In many ways it's an evolution of thought processes.
I suppose the most radical form of evolution in my lifetime
is the way we communicate with one another.
Because of the invention of mobile phones, text, emails,
we don't actually create a written record.
So communicating is easier and it's instant,
but it's not necessarily going to create a permanent record.
And I think that shows that evolution is always seen
in a very positive light
whereas perhaps there are negative implications as well.
Learning has evolved in the modern age through new technology,
in particular, access to information.
The internet, for example, is a vast database of information.
Some of it good, some of it bad
and it's in many ways open to everybody.
Whereas before learning was very much a more academical venture.
But of course evolution doesn't necessarily mean
that it's going to be a good form of learning.
And I think you still need to focus on traditional values as well.
So evolution will combine
traditional research techniques in a learning journey
towards a wider audience and a wider participation.