It is about finding the right balance between the two and recognizing the value of tacit knowledge in professional development.

It is about finding the right balance between the two and recognizing the value of tacit knowledge in professional development.

Tacit knowledge refers to knowledge that cannot be easily articulated or explained through words alone. It is the kind of knowledge that is acquired through experience, observation, and practice. Think about learning how to ride a bicycle. No matter how many instructions or explanations someone gives you, you won't truly understand how to ride it until you actually get on the bike and start pedaling. Tacit knowledge is learned through imitation, emulation, and apprenticeship.

In fact, if you ever hear someone explaining something with a long list of caveats, it is likely that they are drawing on tacit knowledge. Tacit knowledge involves complicated judgments and instantaneous decision-making that balances multiple considerations. It is this ability to make quick and informed decisions that is valuable to learn, but it is nearly impossible to learn it through explanation alone.

Many researchers have discovered that trying to encode all the nuances and intricacies of tacit knowledge into an expert system is extremely difficult. Simply giving people a list of procedures to blindly follow denies them the opportunity to build expertise and hampers their ability to engage in creative problem-solving. This is why embracing the existence of tacit knowledge is crucial for effective learning.

Deliberate practice, on the other hand, is a concept that is only applicable in domains with a long history of established pedagogy, such as music, math, and chess. Deliberate practice involves a structured approach to learning and constant refinement of skills. It is a process that requires guidance from a master and years of practice to truly internalize the principles and techniques.

The field of Naturalistic Decision Making (NDM) is focused on finding ways to make the acquisition of tacit knowledge more effective. By studying experts in various fields, researchers are able to identify the methods and techniques they employ to develop their tacit knowledge. It is important to keep an eye out for NDM methods and approaches that prioritize the acquisition of tacit knowledge, as they offer valuable insights into expertise.

Now, let's shift gears and explore a different approach to professional development - micro-learning. Micro-learning refers to resources that can be consumed quickly and easily in ten minutes or less. These resources can include videos, infographics, or lists of tips that provide bite-sized information that can be immediately applied.

Micro-learning is a valuable tool in professional development because it allows individuals to access information and knowledge in a time-efficient manner. It provides a way to learn on the go, fitting into the busy schedules of professionals. By incorporating micro-learning into our learning routines, we can continuously expand our knowledge and skills without feeling overwhelmed or burdened by lengthy courses or training sessions.

However, it is important to note that learning at work should not be limited to toggling between longer-form learning and micro-learning. Instead, it is about finding the right balance between the two approaches. While micro-learning offers quick and easily digestible content, it may lack the depth and context that longer-form learning provides. On the other hand, longer-form learning allows for a more comprehensive understanding of a topic and the opportunity for deeper exploration.

In conclusion, both tacit knowledge and micro-learning play important roles in professional development. Tacit knowledge, acquired through experience and observation, helps individuals develop expertise and make informed decisions. Micro-learning, on the other hand, offers a convenient and time-efficient way to continuously learn and apply new knowledge in the workplace.

To make the most of these approaches, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Embrace the value of tacit knowledge: Recognize that some knowledge cannot be fully explained or understood through words alone. Seek opportunities to learn from experts and engage in hands-on experiences to develop your own tacit knowledge.

2. Incorporate micro-learning into your routine: Take advantage of micro-learning resources to continuously expand your knowledge and skills in a time-efficient manner. Look for opportunities to apply what you learn immediately to maximize its impact.

3. Find the right balance: While micro-learning offers convenience, don't overlook the value of longer-form learning. Strive to find a balance between quick, bite-sized content and in-depth exploration to gain a comprehensive understanding of topics.

By combining the power of tacit knowledge and micro-learning, you can enhance your professional development journey and unlock new levels of expertise. So, embrace the embodied feelings necessary to ride the bicycle of knowledge successfully and strive to continuously learn and grow in your field.