Getting going on a new interactive training course is an exciting time. There are lots of new, fascinating subjects to get our teeth into - so much so that it's tempting to become a complete social outcast and immerse ourselves in our studies at every available opportunity. But that's not only slightly weird, it's also not the best way to learn and retain information.
Firstly we need to set up a sustainable study habit. This should be the number of hours each week that we can commit to and stick to, and doesn't swamp every other area of our lives! It's better not to attempt an unrealistic amount, and much easier to take in information in bite-sized pieces.
However savvy we are with our learning diary, there are inevitably going to be times when the brain just glazes over, and nothing will go in. Consistently learning a smaller amount well is more useful and maintainable than learning a larger amount not so well.
When this does occur, it's essential not to get demoralised. There can be lots of reasons why we've reached a stalemate, and there are all sorts of ways to overcome the blockage. Taking a break, breathing deeply or going outside into the garden can all help. It's surprising how a hot drink and a piece of cake can fire up the reserves again.
It's not unusual to face challenges the first time we look at something - anything new can test our mental agility. Sometimes we just have to accept this as a part of learning - it happens occasionally and it's not comfortable, but with application we can push through until we hit the 'eureka' moment! Anything worth accomplishing takes a few stop/starts along the way - remember that awkward feeling when first behind the wheel of a car?
Our sub-conscious mind has a habit of solving problems when we're not consciously aware it was working on them, so it can help to leave something over-night and come back the next day with a fresh pair of eyes. Suddenly the answer pops into our head when we're least expecting it.
Writing a section down helps to organise thoughts - if we state our assumptions and the evidence for them, we can usually analyse out the problem areas. Covering it again, and then having a go at explaining it to someone else helps to clarify the point.
With so many different online facilities out there we can frequently stumble upon something that puts it all into context. Researching on Google or technical forums for other explanations and descriptions can sometimes hit the spot.
Finally, there's nothing like an on-screen demonstration and one-to-one explanation to help the penny drop. The most sophisticated learning systems offer excellent mentor support.
Firstly we need to set up a sustainable study habit. This should be the number of hours each week that we can commit to and stick to, and doesn't swamp every other area of our lives! It's better not to attempt an unrealistic amount, and much easier to take in information in bite-sized pieces.
However savvy we are with our learning diary, there are inevitably going to be times when the brain just glazes over, and nothing will go in. Consistently learning a smaller amount well is more useful and maintainable than learning a larger amount not so well.
When this does occur, it's essential not to get demoralised. There can be lots of reasons why we've reached a stalemate, and there are all sorts of ways to overcome the blockage. Taking a break, breathing deeply or going outside into the garden can all help. It's surprising how a hot drink and a piece of cake can fire up the reserves again.
It's not unusual to face challenges the first time we look at something - anything new can test our mental agility. Sometimes we just have to accept this as a part of learning - it happens occasionally and it's not comfortable, but with application we can push through until we hit the 'eureka' moment! Anything worth accomplishing takes a few stop/starts along the way - remember that awkward feeling when first behind the wheel of a car?
Our sub-conscious mind has a habit of solving problems when we're not consciously aware it was working on them, so it can help to leave something over-night and come back the next day with a fresh pair of eyes. Suddenly the answer pops into our head when we're least expecting it.
Writing a section down helps to organise thoughts - if we state our assumptions and the evidence for them, we can usually analyse out the problem areas. Covering it again, and then having a go at explaining it to someone else helps to clarify the point.
With so many different online facilities out there we can frequently stumble upon something that puts it all into context. Researching on Google or technical forums for other explanations and descriptions can sometimes hit the spot.
Finally, there's nothing like an on-screen demonstration and one-to-one explanation to help the penny drop. The most sophisticated learning systems offer excellent mentor support.
About the Author:
Scott Edwards sources and advises on the most up-to-date computer based education. If you're interested in IT Training, visit LearningLolly IT Training Courses.
No comments:
Post a Comment