Learning is your responsibility.
Learning professionals cannot make you learn. Some like to say that training helps you modify your behaviors. I have not met an adult who responds positively to the word behavior. Learning is your responsibility and not something that someone else does to you. Next time you are attending a class, try these strategies:
- Ask clarifying questions
- Confirm the connection between new information and previous knowledge
- Take notes on the whys in addition to the whats
Learning professionals can take you on a learning journey. They organize concepts into bite-size pieces. Like a good realtor, they visit the property before you and make sure it meets your specifications. There are many providers of training, but what you want is an education services provider.
Education-as-a-Service (EaaS)
An example of an Education Services provider is Toastmasters International. Fifteen years ago, I joined Toastmasters. When you join Toastmasters, you have the opportunity to attend training classes through the Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI). However, the bulk of the learning happens during meetings. EaaS is the gift that keeps on giving. I pay a yearly fee, and I have access to online learning modules, an opportunity to demonstrate what I have learned, mentors, and continuous feedback. The curriculum focuses on the core competencies of leadership and communication. Being Toastmaster has helped me become a better communicator, mentor, and leader and continues to do so.
Advantages of purchasing education services
Education service providers look at the bigger picture. They strive to help you become a hero in their organizations. Heroes in an organization solve business problems that no one else could solve. You will know when you have purchased training from education services providers because it feels different. The lessons contain just enough information. The trainer answers the questions:
- Do I understand what has been said, shown, demonstrated?
- Is it clear to me why it matters?
- How does this connect to what I already know and do?
Imagine that high-five you will get from your employer when you solved a problem that other people could not solve.
You don’t believe me.
Sounds way too good to be true. I dare you to google Data Science. Look at all the zeroes in the number of results. Ready to find an education services provider? I thought so.
Are you interested in intentional learning? Meet Heather Leventry. She thrives at the intersection of learning design and training. A born collaborator, Heather helps businesses solve problems with learning products. Connect with Heather on LinkedIn to learn more.
