You might take it for granted that learning is the process in itself, but it can take time and resources to crack the code.
Here at SiliconRepublic.com, we’re focused on learning and upskilling this month. We’re taking a closer look at how organisations approach upskilling, the trends impacting skill-based decision-making and the skills currently most in demand.
So, what better way to continue our series than to explore the topic of learning itself, because despite what you might think, it takes a level of skill to establish a foundation upon which learning and development is both possible and effective. So, how exactly do you learn how to learn?
Plan in advance
While learning and skill development is always personal to the student, there are a number of tips that can benefit someone undertaking a new learning journey. Take, for example, the process of actually starting to research or learn. Very few us would benefit from simply jumping in.
Rather, you have to establish a plan for how you want to approach this new development in your skillset. To start, roughly map out the end goal, the time line you are working with, each step of the learning experience and the resources you need.
This can be as simple as learning how to code by the end of the summer, with each step broken down into a manageable tutorial and a list of the technical and educational resources you plan to use, such as your computer, extra screens and even the stationery you might need to keep a written account or notes.
The time-and-technique tango
A barrier to learning is often how overwhelmed you can become by the seemingly insurmountable level of work you have to digest. Therefore, time pressures and distractions can be a hindrance to those trying to upskill.
Many people will tell you not to have any kind of background noise as it is only a distraction, but for some, having activity in the periphery can actually promote and support the learning process, as too much silence can be a distraction in itself.
You should, however, make an effort to fight against any feelings of procrastination that you might have, as it only serves to waste time you may not have.
This can be achieved by practising the pomodoro technique, which is where you give your work complete focus for 25 minutes, allowing for a five-minute break at the end of each slot. Research suggests that this method can enhance productivity, help you build the foundation for better time management and even reduce stress.
If you’re a hardcore procrastinator, consider temporarily blocking any websites that have the potential to distract you during the work or study day, for example social media platforms.
Test yourself
When I was in school I had a method whereby in my notes I would highlight everything of importance to rote learn and repeat when needed. But what actually happened was I deemed everything of equal importance and had a very neon yellow notebook.
Learning is not simply a process of writing and re-reading your notes, you need to confirm for yourself that the information you are processing is doing more than just going in one ear and out the other. A good system involves breaking your work down into different components, identifying the core tenets and repeating it more than once after a period of time to prove it has stuck with you.
Why not try the Feynman technique. This is where you select a core concept, relay it as if you were talking to a child, make note of the aspects that you couldn’t explain simply and refine them until they are clear. It’s a great way of confirming that you actually understand what you’re learning.
Widen the circle
Similar to the advice around what qualifies as a distraction, a preference for solo or group learning is also very particular to the person. However, if you find that learning on your own is not having the impact you would hope for, why not branch out a little and start a study group or consider becoming a mentor or group leader.
By putting yourself in a position where you are leading a group, you can teach others what you know, solidifying the information in your own mind by repeating it and benefiting from the insights of others. It also means that you can set the group targets and ensure that they are being met in line with your personal goals.
In conclusion
It takes time to figure out what works best and what is ineffective, so make sure to do your research, studying the various different techniques and testing them out to find a good fit.
When it comes down to it you are likely a visual, auditory or hands-on learner, or perhaps a combination of all three. Once you have isolated the best techniques to work with, everything after that will fall into place.
And as always, if you are trying to boost your memory and make the most of your day, make sure to drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, and establish a comfortable and productive workspace.
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