Sadly, I've always said that I'm a lifelong learner and that I study all day. but until recently, I don't think I really understand what studying or learning actually means.
After watching some of Justin Sung's YouTube videos, I finally built a simple framework for how learning works.
First, I now have a clearer definition of studying and learning.
- Studying is the action itself - things like reading tutorials, watching videos, or working through problems.
- Learning happens when I encode new information and connect it to what I already know while I'm studying.
Second, I now have a basic framework that helps me understand what learning really is.
I take in information through my eyes and ears, then I encode it so it becomes concepts in my mind. Over time, those memories gradually fade. I encode information because I may need to retrieve it later. And every time I retrieve it, I'a also encoding it at the same time. The more I retrieve something, the more solid that memory becomes.
If I want to become a good learner, I should have the ability to learn consistently. The third pillar comes up - Enablers.
What is enablers? It's self-management and growth.
On the self-management side, I need to deal with procrastination, improve my ability to focus, and manage my time better. On the growth side, I need to keep experimenting and reflect critically on what I'm doing.
I got a lot out of today.