subject: The Best Methods For Adult Learning [print this page] The Best Methods For Adult Learning The Best Methods For Adult Learning
There is an old saying that goes "You cannot teach old dogs' new tricks." While this may be true for canines, it is not the case with human beings. People can continue to learn throughout their lives and if they want to keep their minds sharp, it is important for them to continue challenging their minds. The best part about adult learning is that you are in complete control of what you get to learn. In school you might have to study subjects you find boring or too difficult or just not interesting. As an adult, you can expand your knowledge of any topic that catches your interest. The information you take in can be fun, it can be purely factual or historic or it can be a new skill. If you want to learn about electrodynamic shakers or torsional excitation, or you would like to know how to knit, or you actually want to learn about rocket science, you can. Some people, no matter how old they get, prefer to study and learn in the traditional manner. They check books out from the library or purchase books and spend quiet time reading the material. They may take notes or highlight passages that are important to them. Some people copy the information into their own notebooks to refer back to later. This is an effective way for many people to learn, especially when you are studying factual information or historical data. This method of study allows you to return to the information at any time for review.In addition to the traditional way of taking in information, many people study the information using popular student techniques. They may make up rhymes or songs that help them retain the information. This is a great option for when there is a great deal of information to retain. It takes some creativity, but it is an effective way to remember information.Making learning fun works for young students and it will help adult students learn too. The more fun a person has while learning, the more they will want to learn. It is also easier to recall information you learned during a game or a challenging activity. It may feel as if you are distracted by the fun, but your brain is processing the information while you are engaged in the fun activity.Finally, consider studying with a partner who is either learning the information you are learning or who is an expert in the field. Your learning partner has to have an interest in the material, otherwise their boredom will frustrate you and you will end up distracted by their poor attitude. Working with someone who is as enthusiastic about the topic as you are will make the learning more fun for both of you. Even if the information is challenging and difficult to understand or retain, a study buddy can make learning a lot easier. No matter your age, you should make it a lifelong mission to continue learning. Use whatever methods work best for you to continue expanding your knowledge.
