What's your process for choosing the best learning resources?

1 Identify your learning objectives

The first step is to clarify what you want to learn and why. What are the specific skills, knowledge, or behaviors that you need to improve your performance or achieve your goals? How will you measure your progress and success? How do your learning objectives align with your performance management plan and feedback? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your focus and prioritize the most important and relevant topics for your learning.

2 Search for credible sources

The next step is to look for learning resources that cover your topics of interest and come from credible sources. Credible sources are those that have expertise, authority, and reputation in their field, and that provide accurate, current, and unbiased information. You can use various criteria to assess the credibility of a source, such as the author's credentials, the publication date, the references, the reviews, and the purpose. You can also use search engines, directories, databases, and recommendations to find credible sources.

3 Compare and contrast different formats

The third step is to compare and contrast the different formats and features of the learning resources that you have found. Different formats have different advantages and disadvantages, depending on your learning style, preferences, and availability. For example, online courses may offer more interactivity, feedback, and flexibility, but they may also require more self-discipline, motivation, and technology. Books may offer more depth, detail, and convenience, but they may also be more passive, outdated, and expensive. You can use a table or a matrix to list the pros and cons of each format and compare them.

4 Evaluate the quality and relevance

The fourth step is to evaluate the quality and relevance of the learning resources that you have selected. Quality refers to how well the learning resources meet your learning objectives, expectations, and standards. Relevance refers to how closely the learning resources match your needs, interests, and context. You can use various criteria to evaluate the quality and relevance of a learning resource, such as the content, the design, the delivery, the outcomes, and the feedback. You can also use a rating scale or a checklist to score each learning resource.

5 Choose the best options

The final step is to choose the best options from your shortlist of learning resources. The best options are those that meet your criteria for credibility, format, quality, and relevance, and that fit your budget, schedule, and goals. You can use a decision matrix or a ranking system to weigh the pros and cons of each option and select the ones that offer the most value and benefit for your learning. You can also consult your manager, mentor, or peers for their input and advice.

6 Plan your learning activities

Once you have chosen the best learning resources, you need to plan how you will use them effectively and efficiently. You need to set realistic and specific learning goals, allocate enough time and resources, create a conducive learning environment, and monitor and evaluate your learning outcomes. You also need to apply what you have learned to your work and seek feedback and support from others. By planning your learning activities, you can maximize your learning potential and performance improvement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?