People learn best when they must learn. Applying what's learned to real-world situations strengthens one's focus and determination to learn. Edwin Locke, in his Theory of Motivation states, "the impact of short feedback loops are the best way to learn." When it comes to corporate and workplace training this type of learning is not widely practiced. Topics or subject matter usually chosen to present to the workforce is chosen by the leadership and what they believe is needed most. But to many of those in the workforce the training bears little resemblance to their immediate relevance for them personally - and learning suffers.
In the "Forgetting Curve" it states, "if new information isn't applied, we'll forget about 75% of it after just six days." The best way to learn is to ask questions. This should become part of who you are. A culture where everyone feels the freedom to ask questions and know that even a "dumb" question makes us better. A culture where people are fearful of asking questions demonstrates a lack of trust.
What needs to change? Adapting to changes is vital in today's business climate. Circumstances change quickly and quick adaptation is necessary to always be learning. Kevin Kelly says, "Get good at beginner mode, asking dumb questions, making stupid mistakes, and teaching others what you learn." Learning must be a part of your culture if you are to adjust and adapt quickly. There are 4-Ways to Learn - Grow - Teach:
Learning the core of what you need to learn
Applying it to real-world situations immediately
Receiving immediate feedback and refining your understanding
Repeat the cycle
Don't deceive yourselves into thinking that learning can't take place from the bottom up as well as from the top down. A healthy work environment will cultivate this type of "always learning" culture.
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