The Process Of Learning In The Workplace

Learning might be the acquisition of new skill, new knowledge, a modified attitude or a combination of all three. It can be defined as ‘the process of acquiring knowledge through experience that leads to a change in behavior”. I think this definition need some explanation. We refer to “the process of how we come to know things at all” as learning, As a result of learning the ideas and thoughts are organized in our minds and we store them in our memories as knowledge. We must also be careful to stress the aspect of experience because behavior can change in ways that are not classed as learning e.g. behavior changes due to alcohol, drugs and fatigue.

Learning is the result of experience. People use the knowledge of the results of past behavior to change, modify and improve their behavior in future. Learning cannot take place without appropriate feedback. The experience may be planned, as in reading this article, or it may be accidental e.g. learning from one’s mistake. However, learning cannot be seen; it can only be inferred by observing changes in behavior.

If you are a designer and working for a designing firm then you can learn in diverse ways while working in your workplace. If you ask me, you can learn from anything around you; same as you can get inspired by everything surrounding you. Let me tell you some excellent learning processes, or make you aware of them as they often get over-looked in your daily routine. You can learn from anything; all you need is positive attitude. Learning can be formal process, a spontaneous process or it may be incidental.

• Formal Process

Learning may be undertaken deliberately when you consciously learn and study, subjecting yourself to assessments to gauge the level and depth of your skills and understanding. Such formal learning situations will test, grade and award qualifications on the basis of whether you have reached an agreed and measurable standard. For example: taking regular classes in a design school or reading informative design magazine or blogs, with a view to get something out of them. Everyone can read but learning need willpower and determination.

• Spontaneous Process

Much of what we have learned takes place without any necessary deliberations or any assessments. Learning can be seen to be a continuous and automatic process, often taking place in a social context. It has an active and dynamic nature and as active participants we engage and relate to the people around us. Sharing the learning experience – going thorough the same learning process – can make the learning process worthwhile and valuable.

• Incidental Learning

Is unintentional or unplanned learning that result from other activities. It occurs often in the workplace and when using computers, in the process of completing design. It happens in many ways; through observation, repetition, social interaction, and problem solving; from implicit meanings in workplace policies or expectations; by watching or talking to fellow designers and colleagues or pro designers; from mistakes, assumptions, beliefs and attributions; or from being forced to accept or adapt to situations. It can result in improved competence, changed attitudes and growth in interpersonal skills, self-confidence and self-awareness. However not all unplanned learning is effective. It can be ‘hit or miss’ and may have more serious consequences – for example, in the ‘learned’ subversion of ‘occupational safety’ practices in the workplace.

Conclusion

Learning while designing is all about developing new skills, competences and attitudes to meet new situations. The basic process is simple. All learning begins when we ask ourselves a question. This may be a simple question of a factual nature such as: “which kind of design does clients want” or a question about process such as: “which kind of programs we will use while designing for client”. Or it could be a question about purpose: “what is the main aim of the design desired by client”.

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These questions may come about because we considered a particular situation and doing so has raised questions. Alternatively it may have come about because a situation has forced the question upon us. Whatever the sources of the question, the situation will demand an answer. Then the answer needs to be tested out in practice. If it works then something has been learned. If it does not then the process starts again with the question.

I think this is all for explaining the process of learning in workplace. The main idea to write this article was to do something new for my readers. Nowadays everyone is writing about designer – client relationship, so I thought to give something change and uncommon to my readers. These tips are not only for designers and developers; but these are for everyone who works in some firm or organization. I hope you have learned some important steps or “facts” about learning process. That’s all for today, I will continue to write on some different and “unconventional” topics like this in future. I have planned to write about team management as next week’s article. So stay tuned.