Sign-up for a course, read the textbook, attend some lectures, study your notes, write an exam, and repeat. That’s the mantra that most of us used to build up our academic knowledge. Until now…
The tide has changed to move from learning in the classroom, focused on the institution, a fixed schedule, and a series of courses that “I have to take,” to a new way of learning that allows me to design a set of learning opportunities that fit what I’m passionate about. The web has given us the ability to live something called learning 2.0: a learner focused, always-on, just-in-time, designed by me for me type approach.
I thought I would share some fantastic resources for creating your own learning 2.0 path:
iTunes U – this is a free learning library built into iTunes that allows you to access video and audio of the world’s thought leaders from some of the most prestigious universities in the world. My current favourite is the Entrepreneurial Thought Leaders series from Stanford.
Harvard Business Review - HBR is the go-to place for business people wanting bite-sized columns and articles on the most current topics facing leaders today. Recently they put their monthly magazine on Zinio.com as well so now you can receive HBR Magazine direct to your iPad, PC, or Mac.
TED.com - if you haven’t heard about TED.com chances are you are just waking up from a coma (I hope you’re feeling better – the world has changed a bit while you were out).
Cisco Webex Recorded Webinars – Webex is a fantastic virtual meeting space that allows you and your team to collaborate online. It’s always a great tool for presenting to an audience that is remote. They’ve brought together thought leaders from around the world to create a series of business webinars using the platform.
wikipedia.org - you might be thinking “why would I go to wikipedia to learn, that’s where my kids go to research school projects?” but the reality is that wikipedia has become an amazing resource on any topic, including links to research and articles that provide even deeper context and learning on almost any topic.
Peer Groups – Napoleon Hill first came up with the idea of a Mastermind Group in his book, Think and Grow Rich, back in 1937. Today there are multiple ways to experience the benefit of a peer group:
- build your own
- attend a Meetup on a topic you’re passionate about
- join organizations like YPO, EO, TEC, or a ViRTUS Exchange [shameless product plug]
If you have been thinking about doing an MBA or Masters in your field and are struggling with the time, money, and energy required for the two-three year commitment, consider the resources above as a way of creating a learning path that’s built by you, for you, and takes into account the realities of your busy life.
What resources are you using to create a personalized learning plan?
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The last step in the strategic planning process is often overlooked, and yet, it’s one of the most important: the action steps that will lead to the successful completion of your objectives.
