How Do I Learn?

The question “How Do I Learn” seemed easy enough initially.  I expected that I could just reflect on my many years of “learning” through school and work, and easily write about that.  Unfortunately, as I thought about it, I realized there was no easy answer.  There was not one specific way that I learned, instead for many years I just learned however it is that I was taught.  Through school and many training sessions at work, I absorbed a great deal of information through listening to a lecture and taking notes.  There were many times that I learned simply through reading.  Other times I learned through watching others do something, or doing it myself.  When going through the list of examples of how adults learn that we discussed during class, I can relate to many of them – practice, repetition, discussion, application, examples, mistakes, stories, and teaching someone else.

So I tried to determine how do I learn best??  I have definitely developed specific skills through trial and error -- experience and mistakes have been wonderful teachers in my life.  But if given a choice, I wouldn’t choose to learn through just doing.  I am much better when I have time for preparing, figuring things out in my mind and planning, before I start doing.  When reading about and discussing self-directed learning, I definitely can relate to that in my adult life (and in many instances, even younger).  Still, I cannot pick just one type of “learning” that is best for me.  So, I have concluded that I learn best through a couple of stages.  Optimally, I first have some overview information about a topic to read on my own.  While reading alone is not sufficient when I am trying to learn about a new skill or topic, it helps give me some context.  Then, preferably, I speak with someone very knowledgeable about the subject and I learn through discussion, including a demonstration where possible.  I also like to have an opportunity to ask questions, to ensure I have an accurate and thorough understanding.  Usually, I will take notes during the discussion or demonstration, which I then read over a few times on my own to reinforce the key points. 

This week, while I was thinking about how I learn, a situation came up at work that exemplified my preference.  I have some difficulty with technology.  Luckily, my co-worker is an expert.  On numerous occasions she has simply shown me how to do various things, but unfortunately I rarely retain the information.  Earlier this week, a presenter for a training program wanted the computer and PowerPoint set up in a certain way, but I didn’t know how to do it.  My co-worker gave me written directions, which I read through numerous times.  Then, when she met me in the conference room before the program, I already had a decent understanding of what to do.  A few questions and a short demonstration later and I (hopefully) have mastered it.  Granted, I did take a few notes for future reference, that I have already read through.  Afterwards, I smiled when recognizing this perfect example of how I learn best. 

I guess I am lucky that I have been exposed to so many different teaching styles throughout my life.  And each of the teachers, whether in school, work or simply through life, have all taught me very valuable things. But if given a choice, I will always choose to learn by reading, discussing, watching and then reading again (plus writing notes throughout).  That has proven to be most effective for me.