A formal education is integral to success in today’s modern workforce. While not every position requires a master’s degree or doctorate, many if not most expect potential employees to have received a bachelor’s degree and/or a specialized certificate program, depending on the vocation.
But one can also build up a skillset, expand a worldview, and make new connections through self-directed learning. In self-directed learning, individuals identify a need for further improvement, research sources for learning, and pursues the subject on one’s own time, rather than completing a specified course within a traditional institutional structure.
Daniel Swersky explores how to balance formal education with self-directed learning for greater personal development.
Set Priorities and Goals
To utilize time efficiently, a person should establish distinct objectives and priorities. Are there specific skill sets one aims to cultivate, driven by a particular motive? For instance, is the goal to master UX Design to augment a website building side venture?
Alternatively, is it to foster creativity or expand general knowledge on a subject? It is essential to ascertain whether there exists a set deadline for achieving these learning ambitions. Consider potential upcoming projects, both personal and professional, that may demand a more robust skill repertoire. This precision in approach facilitates informed decision-making and propels effective action.
Create and Maintain a Clear and Consistent Schedule
Self-directed learning happens on a person’s own time rather than an institutional schedule, so there is little to no outside accountability. If not careful, individuals could fall behind or not practice consistently enough to see a noticeable improvement. That’s why it’s important to create a clear and consistent schedule and stick to it. Set a goal of a certain number of minutes or hours per day or per week for studying, perhaps at a certain time of day.
Seek Out Resources and Guidance
Once an individual has chosen a subject and a timeframe, do some research online to see what resources are available – books, study guides, websites, online courses, etc. Mentors can provide crucial guidance and feedback, letting a person know what resources are best, providing an expert opinion on progress. And a coach can also help discover further opportunities tied to the specific course of study that might not have been considered otherwise!
Integrate Self-Directed Learning into Formal Education
Integrated self-directed learning into a formal education will ensure the person becomes a more dynamic learner, and with knowledge uniquely tied to individual goals and personal interests – this added training can be empowering. Speaking to professors, peers, and professionals in the formal field of study can lead people on a path toward more self-directed learning in a niche area of interest that can complement certain institutional degrees.
Always Reflect and Evaluate
It is crucial to have period self-check-ins to see if study habits are going well and comprehension seems to be improving. Most importantly, take time to evaluate if you are truly enjoying your learning! We learn best when we are genuinely interested and engaged in a topic, and there is no shame in changing course if a subject is not interesting.
In Conclusion
Integrated self-directed learning into a formal education can lead to a more balanced, engaged, and empowered academic and professional life.
