Learning

I received a wonderful reminder of learning computer basics from my friend last week. It all starts at the very beginning - even on-and-off have to be learned. So often, we lose patience because we want to be an expert in just one sitting. The truth is that one exposure to new material is unlikely to turn you into an expert. You will, however, be able to gain expertise through the magic of spaced repetition. And, not only is this true of the computer, but of anything in life.

The key to repetition is its consistency. The best way to learn a new program or to increase your knowledge is to set aside 20 minutes every day (or at least every other day) for practice and experimentation. It is the commitment and discipline that makes the difference .. spaced repetition.

Choose a task to accomplish, then set about to learn it. Don't try to just follow a book from front to cover; it is better to master a task at a time. Have someone show you a new task, follow a book, or learn online. Then, make it a point to repeat the task within the next 24 hours and three more times during the following week. This spaced repetition will work miracles.

Here are a few more ideas for learning:

· Browse through some of the books and magazines available for learning. IDG Books "Teach Yourself Visually …" is one of my favorites. It is a series of books covering a vast array of topics. Each book emphasizes learning by using screen images instead of a lot of text.
· Consider a tutorial. I prefer tutorials that emphasize the words "hands on" and "interactive". Be cautious of any that claim to make you an expert in 24 hours … it's probably not going to happen. (Although anything is possible!)
· Find a mentor and trade skills. If you are an avid golfer, trade golf strokes for keystrokes, a seamstress can trade her needle for a keyboard, etc.

Mentoring has become one of the most successful forms of coaching in Fortune 500 companies. Dubbed "reverse mentoring" companies are now pairing senior staff with college grads in order to exchange experience and technology. Management shares their skills in leadership, career management and practical understanding with today's new breed of "techie" in exchange for skills in instant messaging, video conferencing, and the Internet. The results have been amazing. Not only has it opened up a completely new world of experience, it has bridged the generation gap.

So, give it a try. Set a goal and stick to it. First and foremost is make the commitment - commit to ongoing learning for 20 minutes a day. For extra incentive, give yourself a reward for sticking to your plan. I've been so good at my daily 20 that there's a strawberry pie just waiting for me.