Self-Directed Learning 3

(Friday)

 

This week we became aware of who, how, and where we learn from outside of school.

The goal was to help you appreciate that 1) learning is for life, 2) you like to learn about things you’re interested in, and 3) you are a self-directed learner.

Understanding that we can and do enjoy learning when we choose what and how to learn allows us to maintain a positive view of the learning process. Without being under the pressure of being graded or having your performance compared to others, which can give us a negative view of learning or anything deemed educational, you’re able to enjoy learning whatever you want.

If you can learn to apply that feeling of learning something new to subjects at school, and more importantly whatever your employer needs you to learn, you’ll be a highly valued and successful employee.

Choosing wisely.

In earlier lessons, we mentioned that self-directed learning can include choosing your own instructor. You can learn from a parent, friend, a video tutorial online, or a professional.

However, sometimes you might choose an instructor without even realizing it.

Choose wisely when deciding what to teach yourself.

Watch the video.

These videos are designed to be very simple. Once you understand the main point of the video, work on conveying that thought to a younger sibling or friend. Not only does it reinforce your learning, but allows you to develop your ability to train others.

Remember: You can inadvertently learn from anything you see, hear, or read.


Studies indicate that too many video games can lead to poor social skills, isolation, disinterest in school work and other hobbies, lower grades, reading less, exercising less, becoming overweight, and having aggressive thoughts and behaviors.

You can do it. You already have.

When it comes to self-directed learning, you’re already a pro. You’ve already used your own curiosity, determination, and flexibility to learn something very complex, on your own. Do you know what it is?

Watch the video.

LAYOFF PROOFING

Many of today’s young people enter the workplace with a negative view of learning. Or they may have the idea that their learning is over.

This couldn’t be farther from the truth. With emerging technologies and innovations in every industry on a regular basis, any graduate or young person entering the job market should expect learning to be part of the job.

If you can learn to enjoy learning new things and demonstrate that willingness in the workplace, you will be greatly appreciated. Managers and clients alike value employees that are up to the challenge of learning new methods, processes, data, hardware, or software in order to get the job done.

 

STEPS FOR CHANGE

  • You may not necessarily love school, but you can and do love to learn. By becoming acutely aware of all that you choose to learn on your own, you can reaffirm your love for learning. Hobbies, sports, and projects you choose to learn are indicators of your love for learning.

  • Curiosity is the spark to self-directed learning. Like a literal spark that can light a dry field ablaze, your curiosity in a subject can cause you to be consumed with learning everything you can about that subject. That’s a good thing. Stay currious.

  • On the one hand, remember that anything can teach you. You can learn from what you see and hear in movies, social media, music, and video games. On the other hand, recognize that you have already proven you are a good instructor. You taught yourself a language. You can teach yourself anything. That ability, along with being a life-long learner, will lead to success.

 

What will you do with what you learn?

One reason to become a consummate learner is to use that knowledge to do something worthwhile. What will you do with what you learn? Invent a new sustainable way to build homes? Discover a way to create hologram projectors for home use? Create an organization to assist the homeless? The possibilities are endless if you keep learning.

Thought of the day.

Opportunity doesn't need to knock on your door if it's always open. Learning is the key to opening that door.