In decision analysis people calculate the value of having certain information to help with decisions. The same concept can be applied to learning. When undertaking an activity there is the direct value and the value of the learning derived from the undertaking. This often translates into the amount of uncertainty that can be eliminated by the new knowledge and its effect on actions. Steve noted that learning only has real value if it changes behavior (i.e., decisions). If people will still do the same thing regardless then nothing is gained.