Top 10 Ways to Maintain Continuous Learning in Higher Education
The COVID-19 pandemic has made a significant impact on the higher education sector. Many people would agree that there is no way back to the old status quo. We need to embrace the new normal and keep on refreshing our skills by maintaining continuous learning in higher education.
Why would I need to learn?
Recent changes in the UK labour market have created some fundamental shifts in the UK labour market. The University of Bristol completed an interesting research study in 2020. Three-quarters of their research participants agreed that pandemic-related cuts have contributed to job insecurity and contributed to the fear of losing jobs. The pandemic has led to shrinking university budgets not only in the UK but also in the US and Australia.
In the current times of uncertainty, we need to take responsibility for our own continuous learning in higher education. The more we keep updating our skills and professional knowledge, the easier we could handle unexpected changes in the future. Learning is of course not just about having and keeping a job. It is also about fulfilment and growing as individuals.
According to a report by the World Economic Forum, more than half the children entering primary school will be employed in jobs that do not yet exist. Although we may not know for certain what jobs will be created in the next decade, we can start developing ourselves in the present and keep on polishing our skills.
What characteristics do continuous learners have?
- Continuously seeking new knowledge within the education sector
- Exploring new ways to complete tasks more efficiently
- Maintaining personal and professional networks and connecting with others both face-to-face and virtually (e.g. via social media)
- Being open-minded to developing new creative projects
- Following higher education trends and developments
- Taking ownership over one’s own learning
- Being committed to continuous self-development
Most of us would agree that continuous learning in higher education is a great idea. However, many people struggle to find the time to make learning an ongoing journey as opposed to something you do once in a while.
How can you learn?
- Create your own learning strategy: Many experts agree that one of the best ways to learn a new language is by devoting one hour each day for learning. For some of us, it could be a challenge to spend one hour each day learning. However, the core idea of regular bite-sized learning is very effective. Spending a short amount of time learning on a regular basis is more helpful than a longer blitz once in a while. Could you schedule some regular learning times in the week? What about 3 pm, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays?
- Learn with others: Try to combine both individual and social learning. Learning with others is powerful as you will be able to develop some connections, share stories, and discuss what you have learnt. When you learn on your own, you can progress at your own pace, be more flexible in terms of time, and choose what areas you want to dig deeper into.
- Read books in different fields: President Harry S. Truman once said, “Not All Readers Are Leaders, But All Leaders Are Readers”. Reading is an excellent way to expand your knowledge and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is probably one of the cheapest ways to learn new skills. Do you find it challenging to read books? Try experimenting with different subject areas until you find the area you are genuinely interested in. Try psychology, philosophy, biology or social sciences. Go to your local library or university library, and see what field you are most drawn to.
- Take part in internal courses: Find out about what courses your employer is providing employees. Most universities offer internal courses on the topics of leadership, stress management, well-being, and technical IT skills. Attending these would help you to connect with colleagues from other departments, refresh your skills and to gain new insights.
- Study for a degree: Albert Einstein once said that “Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.” Have you been thinking about going back to studying? Have you found yourself browsing some academic courses recently? Completing an under or postgraduate course can be a fantastic opportunity to expand your horizons. Whether it is a self-funded course or one supported by your employer, a degree-level course could be a life-changing experience.
- Learn a new language: Did you know that learning a new language has lots of cognitive benefits? According to research, speaking another language can help you to develop executive functions such as handling lots of information, prioritising, decision making and managing other people. Although it might feel daunting at first to start learning a new language, you might really enjoy the journey!
- Regular reflection: Journaling about feelings has helped many people achieve better mental well-being. It can help you gain a new perspective on the challenges you are facing. If you are struggling with a complex intellectual challenge, you could discover new solutions and come up with fresh ideas whilst journaling. Rest assured, there is no right or wrong way of journaling. You could set the clock for 15 minutes and simply explore your feelings, the challenges you are facing, your aspirations and as well as new insights.
- Find a coach: Many universities offer internal coaching for staff members. Having regular meetings with a coach can be very helpful for your development. A skilled coach will be able to act as a soundboard, listen to you carefully, brainstorm options with you and help you see things from different angles.
- Become a coach: Many individual coaches would agree that the coaching process has contributed to their professional development. If you are looking to step into a management or leadership position, coaching skills can strengthen your professional profile. Through coaching individuals, you could contribute to somebody else’s development, share your expertise and further enhance your communication skills.
- Embrace uncertainty: In a post-pandemic world, embracing uncertainty is more important than before. Although we might not know what the future holds, we can put our focus on what we can control. If we continuously develop our skills, expand our knowledge and make meaningful connections with others, we will be able to navigate our careers more easily in the future.
Further advice on Continuous Learning:
- Work-integrated Learning in the University of the Future
- How to do a Distance Learning PhD at a UK university
- What is Continuing Professional Development (CPD)?
- Managing Your Continuing Professional Development
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