Friday, June 10, 2011

Lifelong Learning

Lifelong Learning

There are many who mistakenly assume that education and learning is limited to school days. Once the person finishes or drops out of school, learning and education becomes irrelevant to them. This is both a dangerous and mistaken assumption. Learning , in actuality, is a process that begins in early childhood and continues throughout our lives.

Learning can be divided into formal and informal education. Formal education commences with our school days and may continue to university or postgraduate studies. Informal learning, on the other hand, is that which we gain through the multitude of our human interactions and experiences. This then begs the question; “why do we need to learn throughout our lives?”

Simply speaking, Lifelong learning is for the purpose of development. We are all experiencing very dramatic changes in our lives today. These can be strongly attributed to technological advances as well as the onset of globalization. The Internet has caused a revolution and sprouted the information age. Information is changing at such a rapid rate that it necessitates our continual learning in order to keep up, or even remain competitive.

In addition to that, the former paradigm of localization has been replaced with trading blocks and globalization. This has dramatically increased both competition, as well as the need for us to remain competitive in this new milieu sand environment. Learning will help us to keep us abreast of changing markets, changing worldwide developments, and a changing world.

At a micro level, learning will help us to develop ourselves. Old knowledge gained is still important as a foundation, but it is a rapidly evolving and changing body of knowledge. Lifelong learning will equip us with the skills to cope with these changes and adjust.

It is crucial that we be adaptable to these changes. Learning can increase our adaptability. It will empower us with new knowledge, skills and insights.

At a personal level, life long learning will lead to our fulfillment. We can grow and develop. This is inevitable in a changing world, and will help us to reach our full potential. It is very satisfying to learn new concepts and new knowledge. Through this we develop improve and grow mentally. Simply put, it is a positive evolution.

From a macro perspective, life long learning is even more crucial. Through the learning of the general population within a culture , state or region, economic growth can be achieved. With a burgeoning world population, the necessity of economic growth can not be understated.

In addition to that, the fast growing knowledge will aid in the social development of the nation and the people. New knowledge can improve social relationships. New medical knowledge can enhance quality of life. Even the education process can be improved. These are just a few applications. There is no limit to the applicability of new knowledge.

Lifelong learning should be considered as a necessity not only for the individual, but also for the development of the entire human family. It will satisfy our needs, improve our world, develop us, and motivate us in our path to constant improvement. As the old Arabic saying goes Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave.




Reference
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lifelong_learning

How to study for examks effectively

Dear students

Your O levels orb other tests are looming ahead. You feel that you must do well. Your future career depends on the quality of your results. You would like to go to a good college or University. The important question is “How do I improve my results?”

Here are a few strategies which will hopefully improve, not only your academic results in O levels, but in further studies as well.

A. First remember that there are no shortcuts. You must review constantly, preferably daily for at least an hour. Cramming the night before exams will only yield exhaustion and forgetfulness .Successful students study consistently and constantly.

B. Assess your personal goals. What is it that you want to achieve? Many go through life with no definitive goals. Their behavior then becomes erratic haphazard and directionless. If you know what you desire clearly, then you will work towards it.

C. Practice does make perfect. In order to succeed do not just sit in class passively observing your teacher solve problems. You must make a concerted effort to practice questions from your text, past year papers, and red spot series. Try to solve the questions done in class on your own without referring to the notes. This is an effective way to improve your knowledge as well as your confidence.

D. Believe in yourself and abilities. Many students study effectively, but paralyze themselves through fear. Be confident that you have mastered the questions and theories. Talk to yourself in a positive way.” I will remember. I will succeed”, not: “This test will be so hard and I am not good enough”. Trust your abilities. Take and Talk away your fear.

E. Understand, the theory, whether it be Mathematics Geography, or any other discipline. You must attend classes regularly. You must revise your notes and book . If there are some areas of difficulty, do not be shy to ask your teacher for explanation or help.

F. Remember that solving questions does not mean you understand the theory. Question structures always change. If you understand the theory , you will be able to address any question. Understand the relevant theory. Read and revise regularly.

G. Create interest and excitement in your quest for knowledge. If you enjoy what you are studying, you will perform better. Most things that interest us are memorable. Remember that these results are an important step in your future aspirations.

H. Manage your time. You must be consistent in studying. In exams, do not spend too much time on any one question. Do not waste your time on useless counterproductive activities like negative self talk. .Also remember that a short 10 minute break after studying for an hour will relax your mind and body. A relaxed mind is more receptive to knowledge. Avoid tenseness


I. Adjust to your learning style. Some are visual learners, others are auditory or kinesthetic. If you are a visual learner, write your notes down and read them. If you are auditory, read your notes out loud to yourself.

J. Use memory tricks, even if seemingly ridiculous to remember important points. Mnemonic devices can be very useful.

Below are some websites that can give you a more in-depth understanding of the issues discussed in this short paper.

Hopefully all these simple strategies will help you build up your confidence and skills towards success.



References

www.betterschoolresults.com

http://homeworktips.about.com/od/makingthegrades/a/badgrades.htm

http://www.ldpride.net/learningstyles.MI.htm

http://www.eudesign.com/mnems/_mnframe.htm