A note about ‘Active’ reading and learning
We have all seen or heard from the people who prattle on about the books they have read and the courses they have done. However if the knowledge gained from those books or courses is not actively applied it is all but useless. The simple fact remains, the fire of desire to become ‘better’ can ignite success but without resolute action, the fire may quickly die. Knowledge must be actively applied to be useful.
The key to learning a new skill is first to generate the desire to have that skill and the intention to perfect it, then you must commit to purposeful action.
Therefore, in order to actively acquire new knowledge you should
- First mentally ‘warm up’ and ‘prepare’ by reading for overall meaning (skim read)
- Then become familiar and recognise key aspects through actively reading (reading with a destination in mind)
- Finally consolidate your new skills through questioning and practice.
So before reading, ask yourself,
- Why have I chosen to read this book? (where am I)
- What do I hope to gain? (Where do I want to be) and,
- How willing am I to implement what I learn? (what path will I take)
In an age of rapid change, mastering the ‘art of learning’ is essential. This is why we go to school, to learn how to learn.