As a habitual learner, I am always focused on learning new skills and gaining a better understanding of how things work. I consider it essential for my profession, but it's also my hobby. I've gained some great learning techniques which help me optimize my learning skills. Here is my three-step process I use to prepare before delving into the learning project.
Step One: Choose your adventure
Naturally, before learning any new skill, you need to know what it is, right? Yes and no. To master a new skill, you need a complete understanding of the subject matter. Find the resources you plan to use; books, online tutorials, and courses, etc. Make sure you're only focusing on one thing at a time. You also need to set a realistic goal and timeline.
Step Two: Choose your path
Once you have decided on a subject, resources, and goals, you're ready to focus on how you will learn. There are three formats to choose from. Full-time, which is good for those of at home, in-between jobs, or school. Fixed-schedule is ideal for those of us who have specific times in the day that you know you'll be able to dedicate to the project. For example, an hour or two before work or time during the weekend. A fixed-hour approach is best suited for those with schedules that fluctuate but can still dedicate a certain amount of time during a given week.
Step Three: Chose your weapons
Next, you need to prepare before beginning the learning process. Have all of your sources available. Research what has worked well for others who have learned the same topic. Once you've settled on your learning tools, make sure you have them all available or in hand before you being. Test your planned schedule to make sure you can stick to it.
Here be dragons
While on your quest, there will be danger! Keeping your focus is essential to completing your learning projects. Many of us in the workforce have likely neglected our learning skills. There are things you can do to improve those skills, making the process more enjoyable and less painful.
Reading regularly helps keep your mind active. Reflect on your progress during any learning process. Remember that learning any subject isn't just about reaching the finish line. Learning is a continuous activity, and you'll be gaining experience throughout the entire process. Sharing your newfound knowledge is a great way to solidify what you've learned. Teaching has proven to be one of the best ways to learn and retain new information. It also gives you a way of measuring your level of understanding. Developers use a technique known as "rubber ducking". The goal is to know enough where you can successfully explain something to a person (or rubber duck/) who knows little to nothing about the subject.
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