The Power of Structured Learning and Personal Note-Taking

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Jul 03, 2023
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The Power of Structured Learning and Personal Note-Taking
Introduction:
When it comes to learning, there are two distinct approaches - structured and unstructured. While the former involves following pre-defined objectives, the latter occurs more naturally without explicit direction. In this article, we will explore the benefits of structured learning and how personal note-taking can provide insight into our unique personalities and enhance our learning experiences.
The Three Phases of Structured Learning:
Structured learning can be divided into three phases - discovery, sense-making, and experimentation. The discovery phase involves exploring new ideas and topics, while the sense-making phase focuses on deepening our understanding. Finally, the experimentation phase allows us to apply our knowledge and gain practical experience. These phases are not bound by time, and we may cycle through them at our own pace.
The Importance of Formal Structure:
In a school setting, formal structure plays a crucial role in motivating students. Exams and the promise of future opportunities serve as powerful incentives to learn. However, outside of school, it can be challenging to maintain the same level of motivation. To address this, replacing institutional oversight with the public record of the internet can be a game-changer. By intentionally sharing our learning and progress in public spaces, we hold ourselves accountable and stay motivated.
Personal Note-Taking as a Reflection of Personality:
The way we take notes can provide valuable insights into our individual personalities. Each person has a unique approach to note-taking, which reflects their priorities and thought processes. Platforms like Glasp, which allow users to highlight and annotate online content, offer a glimpse into how different individuals perceive and prioritize information. By exploring the curated posts of like-minded individuals, we can discover new resources and expand our own knowledge base.
Harnessing Uniqueness for Effective Learning:
Taking notes in a manner that aligns with our uniqueness and creative thinking can significantly enhance the learning experience. By infusing our personal touch into our notes, we not only make them a reflection of who we are but also deepen our understanding and retention of the knowledge. When we resonate with the material we are learning, it becomes easier to recall and apply that knowledge in the future.
Actionable Advice:
- 1. Embrace structured learning: Set clear objectives and create a roadmap for your learning journey. Break it down into discovery, sense-making, and experimentation phases to ensure comprehensive understanding and practical application.
- 2. Share your progress: Leverage the power of the internet to share your learning journey with others. Utilize platforms like Glasp to document and showcase your progress. This public accountability will help you stay motivated and committed to your learning goals.
- 3. Personalize your note-taking: Develop a note-taking style that reflects your uniqueness and creative thinking. Experiment with different methods and formats to find what resonates with you the most. By infusing your personality into your notes, you will enhance your understanding and retention of the material.
Conclusion:
Structured learning, complemented by personalized note-taking, empowers individuals to navigate their learning journey effectively. By embracing intentional structure and leveraging the public record of the internet, we can maintain our motivation and hold ourselves accountable. Furthermore, our note-taking style serves as a reflection of our unique personalities and can significantly influence our learning experience. So, let's embrace structured learning and infuse our personal touch into our notes to unlock our full potential in the pursuit of knowledge.
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