Embracing Structured Learning and Making the Most of Our Time

Embracing Structured Learning and Making the Most of Our Time

Introduction:
In our journey through education, we are guided by structured learning paths that help shape our future. However, once we step out of the traditional school system, we often find ourselves faced with the challenge of structuring our own learning. This article explores the importance of structured learning, the difficulties we encounter after school, and strategies to make the most of our time.

The Difference Between Structured and Unstructured Learning:
Structured learning differs from unstructured learning in its intentionality. While structured learning follows predetermined paths and objectives, unstructured learning lacks a clear direction and purpose. Structured learning provides a framework that helps us discover new ideas, make sense of them, and experiment with their application.

The Challenges of Structured Learning After School:
After completing high school, we may find it difficult to navigate the world of structured learning. The well-defined paths we once had, such as higher education or apprenticeships, may no longer be as clear. This can leave us feeling uncertain about our learning journey and how to proceed.

Approaching Structured Learning in Three Phases:
To tackle structured learning effectively, it is helpful to break it down into three distinct phases: discovery, sense-making, and experimentation. The discovery phase involves keeping our eyes open to new ideas, drawing inspiration from work, hobbies, and the media we consume. This leads to generating a backlog of topics to explore, each tied to a specific objective.

The sense-making phase is triggered when we choose a topic from our discovery list and decide to delve deeper. During this phase, we can create artifacts, such as tweets, blog articles, or visuals, to document our thoughts and insights. By sharing our findings publicly, we not only hold ourselves accountable but also contribute to the collective knowledge base.

The Role of the Internet in Structured Learning:
In the absence of institutional oversight, the internet becomes a powerful tool for structured learning. By making our learning journey transparent through online platforms, we invite others to join us and build upon our discoveries. Documenting our progress and leaving breadcrumbs for others to find helps create a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Harnessing the Public Record of the Internet:
One way to make the most of the public record of the internet is by conscientiously annotating and organizing valuable content. Tools like Glasp can help us curate and categorize the literature we come across. By doing so, we not only enhance our own learning but also contribute to the collective knowledge ecosystem.

Embracing Mortality and Living in the Present:
While structured learning is crucial, it is equally important to acknowledge the finite nature of our existence. As Seneca said, "You act like mortals in all that you fear, and like immortals in all that you desire." We often get caught up in busyness, burying our awareness of mortality beneath our daily routines. This leaves us with a sense of unfulfillment and a feeling of being alone.

Avoiding the Trap of Waiting:
Many of us fall into the trap of waiting for the perfect moment to start living the life we desire. We convince ourselves that we will pursue our passions later, when certain conditions are met. However, as Seneca reminds us, "How late it is to begin to live just when we must cease to live." We must embrace the present and actively create new memories to make the most of our limited time.

Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace structured learning by consciously exploring new ideas and generating a backlog of topics to dive into.
2. Document and share your learning journey through public channels, such as social media or blogging platforms.
3. Remember the finite nature of life and avoid the trap of waiting for the perfect moment to pursue your passions.

Conclusion:
Structured learning after school can be challenging, but by embracing the three phases of discovery, sense-making, and experimentation, we can make the most of our learning journey. Utilizing the public record of the internet and embracing the present moment can enhance our structured learning experience and bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment to our lives. So, let us embark on this journey with open minds, leaving breadcrumbs for others to follow, and actively living the lives we desire.