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.
The first thing we need to establish is a sustainable study habit. This is a number of hours each week that we can commit to and stick to, and doesn't exclude every other area of our lives! It's better not to run before we can walk, 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 happens, it's important not to get demoralised. There can be all sorts of reasons why we've had a mental block, and there are lots of ways to overcome the stalemate. Taking a break, going outside into the garden and breathing deeply can all help. It's amazing how a nice cup of tea and a piece of cake can fire up the reserves again.
It's not unusual to grapple with understanding the first time we look at something - anything new tests our mental agility, and sometimes we just have to accept that this is part of learning - it happens from time to time and it's uncomfortable, but with application we can push through until we get to the 'eureka' moment! Anything worth accomplishing takes a few failed attempts along the way - remember that awkward feeling when first behind the wheel of a car?
Sometimes it helps to leave it over-night and come back the next day with a fresh pair of eyes. Our mind has a habit of solving problems sub-consciously when we're not aware it was working on them - and suddenly the answer flashes into our head when we're least expecting it.
Covering a section again, and then having a go at explaining it to someone else helps to clarify the point. Writing it down helps to organise thoughts - if we state our assumptions and the evidence for them, we can usually analyse out the problem areas.
Using Google or technical forums for other explanations and descriptions can sometimes put it all in context. With so many different medias out there we can frequently stumble upon something that hits the spot.
Finally, sophisticated learning systems offer excellent mentor support. There's nothing like an on-screen demonstration and one-to-one explanation to help the penny drop. - 16928
The first thing we need to establish is a sustainable study habit. This is a number of hours each week that we can commit to and stick to, and doesn't exclude every other area of our lives! It's better not to run before we can walk, 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 happens, it's important not to get demoralised. There can be all sorts of reasons why we've had a mental block, and there are lots of ways to overcome the stalemate. Taking a break, going outside into the garden and breathing deeply can all help. It's amazing how a nice cup of tea and a piece of cake can fire up the reserves again.
It's not unusual to grapple with understanding the first time we look at something - anything new tests our mental agility, and sometimes we just have to accept that this is part of learning - it happens from time to time and it's uncomfortable, but with application we can push through until we get to the 'eureka' moment! Anything worth accomplishing takes a few failed attempts along the way - remember that awkward feeling when first behind the wheel of a car?
Sometimes it helps to leave it over-night and come back the next day with a fresh pair of eyes. Our mind has a habit of solving problems sub-consciously when we're not aware it was working on them - and suddenly the answer flashes into our head when we're least expecting it.
Covering a section again, and then having a go at explaining it to someone else helps to clarify the point. Writing it down helps to organise thoughts - if we state our assumptions and the evidence for them, we can usually analyse out the problem areas.
Using Google or technical forums for other explanations and descriptions can sometimes put it all in context. With so many different medias out there we can frequently stumble upon something that hits the spot.
Finally, sophisticated learning systems offer excellent mentor support. There's nothing like an on-screen demonstration and one-to-one explanation to help the penny drop. - 16928
About the Author:
Author Scott Edwards splits his work between advising and consulting on superior education and support in the UK. If you're interested in IT Training, visit LearningLolly IT Training Courses.
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