I think universities are trying to figure out how we could use what we know about learning to change our education system, but it is sort of funny that they don't necessarily seem to be consulting the people who are sitting right there on campus.

In this quote, Alison Gopnik points out the irony that universities, which are places of higher learning, are trying to figure out how to improve the education system but aren't necessarily consulting the most relevant stakeholders—students. She finds it funny that institutions of higher education are often working on solutions to enhance learning without truly engaging the very people who experience it firsthand. Gopnik highlights a disconnect between educational policy-making and the perspectives of the students who are directly involved in the process.

Gopnik’s comment suggests a gap between the theory of education, which universities are trying to improve, and the actual lived experience of learning that students encounter daily. By not consulting students, universities may be missing out on valuable insights that could inform meaningful change. The humor comes from the absurdity of an education system focused on improving learning without truly tapping into the knowledge and experiences of its primary participants.

The origin of this quote reflects Gopnik’s background as a developmental psychologist with a focus on learning and cognition. She is known for her work on how children learn, and this quote extends her broader view on education. Gopnik often discusses the importance of understanding learning from a developmental perspective, and this quote critiques the lack of practical, student-centered approaches in universities' efforts to reform the education system.

In essence, the quote is a critique of educational institutions' failure to fully engage with the individuals they are trying to serve. Gopnik's observation brings attention to the fact that students—as the ones directly involved in the educational process—are often overlooked when it comes to improving the system that’s supposed to benefit them. It’s a call for more collaboration and inclusivity in educational reforms.