5 Personal Learning Principles
My Tips for Academic Success
Whether actively or subconsciously, we are continuously absorbing information. The feat of learning is a constant process we are a part of by the mere act of being alive. I am lucky enough to be able to say that I’m quite proud of the academic accomplishments I have achieved and even more fortunate to be given a platform to share my advice.
Below are the 5 key principles I employ in my own learning process that I believe can benefit everyone!
Motivation is a Must
~In order to sustain the ongoing process of education, you need to be motivated. Setting short or long term goals for yourself, the simple act of having a box to check off, bolsters one’s determination to constantly strive forward. The effect of learning is strengthened when you’re satisfied and happy about the work being done. Find what motivates you! Whether it’s one primary focus for an overall goal or individualized goals pertaining to certain tasks, motivation is the driving force behind achieving success.
Organization of Knowledge
~Naturally, connections are made between the things we come to learn. Mentally organizing one’s knowledge, categorizing the important from the less so, contributes to the overall efficiency of the resources being absorbed.
Be a Flexible Learner
~Learning is an individualized process. Different ways of learning suite different people best. Trying to apply one mode of education to the multitude of thinkers, is more harmful than beneficial. Learning should be responsive to an individual’s pace and environment. Different styles of learning can be individualized to the topic being discussed. For many, learning by applying what they have been told and shown in the real world yields greater results than conventional techniques.
Let Creativity Flow
~Creativity is a process which generates ideas that have value specific to the individual. Individuals learn best when they are excited and engaged in the knowledge process. Tapping into creative outlets better equips you for life in this increasingly uncertain and rapidly changing world we live in. Creativity engages the mind to fully integrate what’s being taught. Forcing yourself to look at things through a different perspective, using your imagination to think of endless possibilities, and opening your mind to exploring problems, influences the extent to which the knowledge itself is being absorbed.
Self-Recognition
~You should be proud of yourself! Education is not a one and done task, it takes hard work and dedication. Applauding and rewarding yourself is as integral to the learning process as the actual learning itself. The feeling of satisfaction that comes from understanding a difficult topic or coming up with a new solution for a reoccurring problem, are things you should allow yourself to revel in. Acknowledging the effort you’ve put in reinforces the basis for wanting to learn.
