In The Problem of Common Sense, Kumashiro defines “commonsense” as commonplace truths and habits which can be both limiting and harmful. This became the most apparent to Kumashiro as a Peace Corps volunteer in Nepal because he was able to see this phenomenon as an outsider, with a completely different worldview on education. Students and faculty in the Nepalese school he was at were conditioned to believe that there was only one way to implement learning. They believed this to the extent that any other approaches Kumashiro took to learning were often seen as attempts to sabotage success. In wanting to “advance” this school in Nepal to the teaching methods he learned in the United States, he also began to shine a light on his own unquestioned convention.

Why it is so important to move beyond what we are accustomed to is because even though it may seem easier for us, it will always leave someone at a disadvantage. This is especially true when in terms of things like education. If a different approach to learning is the only thing that will work for someone and nothing new if ever tried, that individual’s opportunity to be successful is lost. We can become so subconsciously confident with the methods we use everyday that it is often used as a way to categorize someone as inferior. If someone isn’t successful using a commonplace method, we often determine that there is something wrong with them rather than something wrong with the method. When we do not move out of our comfort zones and find ways to challenge the customary, this can blur the lines between right and wrong and lead to things like exclusion. If we are able to stray away from mindless repetition and move towards analysis and inclusiveness, this can mean a chance for all to thrive rather than a chosen few.