The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 11 letter word INSTRUCTION
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
I
N
S
T
R
U
C
T
I
O
N
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "something we can learn from" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case something we can learn from = instruction.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does INSTRUCTION mean?
INSTRUCTION noun- The act of instructing, teaching, or furnishing with information or knowledge.
- An instance of the information or knowledge so furnished.
- An order or command.
- A single operation of a processor defined by an instruction set architecture.
- A set of directions provided by a manufacturer for the users of a product or service.