Future-Fit Learning

In an increasingly disrupted and changing world we must question our learning choices to future proof our careers. Are my chosen studies relevant? Is the qualification up to date with current industry trends? Are the studies I have chosen worth the time and cost I will incur? Are there industry accepted alternatives to formal institution based study?

If these questions have made you think, consider the reality of our rapidly evolving workplace. ‘Business as usual’ is now ‘Business unusual’. A new world of being and doing is upon us. With each digital innovation, hi-tech gadget release and the growing ability of artificial intelligence to mimic human thought, the ‘future’ is the ‘now’. The rules off on-the-job-performance have changed. New skills are constantly in demand and they are required NOW! Employees should be learning new skills but even more importantly, adapting to new ways of thinking.

Each one of us is a very different learner to the person who years ago walked out of the Matric exam room. We consume information on devices, we search and share information with friends and colleagues ‘on-the-go’. Opinions and beliefs are influenced by the information communicated by others. We want to consume knowledge the same way we consume entertainment – in small pieces, instantly, as entertaining digital sound & video bites. If that is how we enjoy being entertained, it is fast becoming a way we like to learn. It is time for a shift in learning culture, it is time for change.

Here are 5 ways you can engage with just-in-time learning.

1.      Learning Apps & Websites:

Search and load subject specific apps on your phone or tablet. Information is presented in small, easily absorbed pieces of information. This keeps you in touch with updated learning on the latest trends. Most apps can be found on both Apple and Android platforms. 

Learn any topic you require for free. Content is offered in a variety of presentation formats including videos and infographics. Sign up for learning that can be accessed anytime it suits you.   

2.      Magazine Apps

You can download free content apps from some of the world’s leading media houses, consultancies and thought incubation hubs. Download an app like Flipboard and set it to pull articles from the net on topics you select. You can also set the app to pull articles on your preferred topics off the magazines and information portals you choose to read. This is free…

3.      MOOCS

To follow longer, more integrated learning paths, investigate integrated worldwide collaborative learning provided by MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses). Prominent International Universities offer popular courses on online platforms at a reasonable cost. Learning courses are continually updated for relevance and are rated on their popularity – assessed by students. 

4.      Social Learning & Collaboration               

Learning through sharing in a community of professionals is gaining popularity. Cross functional communities are starting communities of practice using social media to bridge geographical and business divides.    

5.      Video Learning

Video Learning is many the most entertaining way to gain knowledge in a hurry. Source these apps/websites to see very innovative ways to present knowledge.

People with a thirst for knowledge and the will to explore new frontiers are creating their own learning journeys. Those who search, discover and follow new paths to gather and curate knowledge are enjoying the benefits of fast paced, personalised learning that challenges traditional models and rapidly progresses through change and disruption to growth and achievement. To remain relevant we need to change our thinking, our working, our learnig