How I Approach Structured Learning After School: A Journey of Discovery and Sense-Making

How I Approach Structured Learning After School: A Journey of Discovery and Sense-Making

Structured learning is different from unstructured learning. It is characterized by intentionality and a clear path towards acquiring knowledge and skills. In contrast, unstructured learning lacks a defined plan or direction. After finishing school, many individuals find it challenging to continue with structured learning. The reasons for this difficulty are rooted in the structured nature of education during high school.

In high school, students are provided with clear learning paths. Whether it is pursuing higher education, taking a gap year, or entering an apprenticeship, there are predetermined routes for students to follow. This structured approach gives students a sense of direction and purpose. However, once outside the school system, individuals have to navigate their own learning paths, which can be daunting.

To approach structured learning after school, I have developed a three-phase process: discovery, sense-making, and experimentation. The first phase involves actively exploring various aspects of life with eyes wide open. This can include taking cues from work, hobbies, or consuming media and literature. The goal is to generate a backlog of topic areas that I can delve into, each tied to a specific objective. By doing so, I can determine where and how I can realize the value of learning a particular topic.

The second phase, sense-making, is triggered when I identify a topic from my discovery list and decide to research it further. During this phase, I create artifacts on my public channels, such as tweets, threads on Twitter, articles, or visuals on my blog. These artifacts serve as a means to document my learning journey and share insights with others. I believe that replacing institutional oversight with the public record of the internet can foster similar behavior in others. By being thoughtful and documenting as much as possible, I leave breadcrumbs that others may find valuable long after I have moved on from a particular topic area.

In my quest for knowledge, I came across an interesting concept called "Article Club." This community brings together like-minded individuals who read, annotate, and discuss one great article every month on topics such as race, education, or culture. Article Club addresses the challenge of finding people to connect with after reading something impactful. By joining this community, individuals can engage in meaningful discussions and gain different perspectives on important issues.

The structure of Article Club is divided into four weeks. In the first week, participants sign up and begin reading the selected article individually. This allows everyone to form their own initial thoughts and impressions. In the second week, a shared version of the article is annotated by the members. This collaborative effort adds depth and different perspectives to the reading. In the third week, an interview with the author is provided for further insight. This adds context and allows participants to better understand the author's intentions and background. Finally, in the fourth week, a group discussion takes place on Zoom, where members can share their thoughts, ask questions, and engage in a meaningful dialogue.

This structured approach to reading and discussing articles not only enhances the learning experience but also creates a sense of community and connection. It provides a platform for individuals to share their interpretations, challenge their own biases, and gain new perspectives from others. By actively participating in Article Club, individuals can continue their structured learning journey even outside the traditional institutional setting.

In conclusion, approaching structured learning after school requires intentionality and a proactive mindset. By adopting a three-phase process of discovery, sense-making, and experimentation, individuals can chart their own learning paths and pursue knowledge in a structured manner. Additionally, seeking out communities like Article Club can provide a supportive environment for meaningful discussions and connections. To make the most of structured learning after school, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Keep an open mind and actively seek out new ideas and perspectives in your daily life. Take cues from your work, hobbies, and the media you consume. This will help you generate a backlog of topics to explore further.

2. Document your learning journey and share your insights with others. Whether it's through social media, blogging, or participating in communities like Article Club, leaving breadcrumbs for others to discover can be both fulfilling and beneficial for future learners.

3. Seek out structured learning communities and engage in discussions with like-minded individuals. Joining groups or clubs that focus on specific topics of interest can provide a sense of accountability and support in your learning journey.

By incorporating these practices into your approach to structured learning after school, you can continue to grow and expand your knowledge in a meaningful and intentional way. Remember, learning is a lifelong process, and with the right mindset and resources, you can continue to thrive in your pursuit of knowledge.