How I Approach Structured Learning After School: Combining Discovery, Sense-Making, and Experimentation

How I Approach Structured Learning After School: Combining Discovery, Sense-Making, and Experimentation

Structured learning is different from unstructured learning. The key distinction lies in intentionality. Structured learning involves following clear learning paths and having defined objectives, while unstructured learning is more spontaneous and flexible. After finishing school, structured learning can become challenging because the clear learning paths provided in high school no longer exist. We need to find new ways to approach structured learning and continue our educational journey.

In my experience, I have found that structured learning can be broken down into three distinct phases: discovery, sense-making, and experimentation. The first phase, discovery, involves actively seeking out new ideas and information. This can be done by walking through life with our eyes wide open, taking cues from our work, hobbies, and the media we consume. During this phase, it is essential to generate a backlog of topic areas that we can delve into, each tied to a specific objective. This backlog will serve as a guide for our structured learning journey.

Once we have a list of topics, we can move on to the sense-making phase. This phase is triggered when we identify a specific topic from our discovery list and decide to research and explore it further. The output of this phase can be in the form of artifacts shared on public channels, such as tweets, articles, or visuals on a blog. By documenting our learning journey and sharing our findings with others, we not only solidify our understanding but also contribute to the collective knowledge of the internet.

Replacing institutional oversight with the public record of the internet can encourage similar behavior among learners. When we know that our learning progress is visible to others, we are more likely to be thoughtful and thorough in our documentation. By leaving breadcrumbs of knowledge that others can find value in, we create a legacy that extends beyond our own learning journey. This sense of accountability can be a powerful motivator to continue structured learning even after leaving the formal education system.

Incorporating effective study techniques is crucial for successful structured learning. One such technique is using a highlighter while studying. However, there are three pitfalls that we should avoid when using a highlighter:

1. Highlighting before reading: A common mistake is to start highlighting text or documents without first reading them. Without understanding the content, we cannot determine what is important or relevant. It is crucial to read the material first, take a break to reflect on the key points, and then return with a highlighter for a second pass. This ensures that our highlighting is informed and focused.

2. Highlighting as a substitute for note-taking: While highlighting is a valuable tool for visually organizing information, it should never be a substitute for note-taking. Writing our own notes allows us to actively process and understand the concepts we are studying. By putting information into our own words, we engage in a deeper level of comprehension and commit the knowledge to memory.

3. Using a single color for all highlights: If we use the same color for all our highlights, it can quickly become confusing and ineffective. Different colors can be used to categorize and differentiate the information we highlight. For example, we can assign specific colors to quotes, definitions, or key concepts. This color-coded system helps us quickly identify and review important information.

In conclusion, approaching structured learning after school requires a deliberate and intentional approach. By combining the phases of discovery, sense-making, and experimentation, we can create a roadmap for our learning journey. Documenting our progress and sharing our findings on public platforms adds accountability and contributes to the collective knowledge of the internet. Additionally, incorporating effective study techniques, such as using a highlighter wisely, can enhance our comprehension and retention of information. By avoiding the pitfalls of premature highlighting, using it as a supplement to note-taking, and implementing a color-coded system, we can optimize our study sessions and make the most of our structured learning experience.

Actionable Advice:

1. Create a discovery list: Actively seek out new ideas and information from various sources. Keep track of topics that pique your interest and have clear objectives tied to each topic.

2. Document and share your learning journey: Use public channels to share your findings and insights. By leaving breadcrumbs of knowledge, you contribute to the collective knowledge of the internet and hold yourself accountable for your learning progress.

3. Use effective study techniques: When using a highlighter, make sure to read the material first before highlighting. Take notes to actively process and understand the concepts. Use different colors to categorize and differentiate the information you highlight, making it easier to review and recall later.