Last updated on Oct 6, 2024

How can you apply your learning to real-world problems or projects?

Self-directed learning is a skill that can help you achieve your personal and professional goals, but how do you apply what you learn to real-world problems or projects? In this article, we will explore some strategies and tips to help you transfer your learning to practical situations and create value for yourself and others.

1 Identify a problem or project

The first step to apply your learning is to identify a problem or project that interests you and is relevant to your learning goals. This could be something related to your work, your hobbies, your community, or your personal development. For example, if you are learning web development, you could choose to create a website for a local business, a nonprofit organization, or a personal portfolio. If you are learning a foreign language, you could choose to write a blog, join a conversation group, or travel to a country where the language is spoken.

Add your perspective

Kristin Smith BCom(hons), HHP, CDS, CI, CWHP-P, PHS, CHCP

Workplace Health & Wellness Coordinator/Holistic Health Coach/Certified Holistic Cancer Practitioner/Collaborating with others to build healthy and productive workplaces where employees thrive
Report contribution
My favorite way to practice a new skill is to find someone who is already an expert in the skill or doing the job and show them your work or ask if you can role play with them or demonstrate your skill. Ask for honest feedback.

Like
Rajdeep D.
Report contribution
Applying learning to real-world problems involves a strategic approach. First, identify the problem and align it with relevant knowledge. For instance, if you’ve learned about data analytics, use it to optimize project workflows or improve decision-making processes. Engage in active problem-solving by implementing theories and models learned, such as the Kirkpatrick Model for evaluating training effectiveness. Collaborate with peers to test and refine your solutions, incorporating feedback for continuous improvement. Document your processes and outcomes, reflecting on what worked & what didn’t. This iterative approach ensures that your learning translates into practical, impactful solutions, enhancing both personal & organizational growth.

Like

2 Plan your approach

The next step is to plan how you will approach the problem or project, using the knowledge and skills you have acquired or are acquiring. You can use a framework such as SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) to set clear and realistic objectives, milestones, and deadlines. You can also use tools such as mind maps, flowcharts, or outlines to organize your ideas, resources, and steps. For example, if you are creating a website, you could define the purpose, audience, content, design, and functionality of the site, and break down the tasks into manageable chunks.

Add your perspective

Kristin Smith BCom(hons), HHP, CDS, CI, CWHP-P, PHS, CHCP

Workplace Health & Wellness Coordinator/Holistic Health Coach/Certified Holistic Cancer Practitioner/Collaborating with others to build healthy and productive workplaces where employees thrive
Report contribution
I agree with the above. However I like discussing or brainstorming with a diverse group to see possible roadblocks or obstacles in the plan while gaining other's ideas and perspectives. I find it usually reveals something I may not have thought of.

Like

3 Apply and reflect

The third step is to apply your learning and reflect on your progress and outcomes. You can use various methods to apply your learning, such as doing, teaching, explaining, collaborating, or experimenting. You can also use feedback, evaluation, or self-assessment to reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and achievements. For example, if you are writing a blog in a foreign language, you could post your articles online, ask for comments from native speakers, compare your writing with other sources, and track your improvement over time.

Add your perspective

4 Learn from others

The fourth step is to learn from others who have solved similar problems or completed similar projects. You can use sources such as books, articles, podcasts, videos, courses, or mentors to learn from their experiences, insights, and advice. You can also use platforms such as forums, blogs, social media, or online communities to connect with other learners, share your work, ask questions, and exchange feedback. For example, if you are learning web development, you could follow some web developers on Twitter, join a web development group on Facebook, or enroll in a web development course on Udemy.

Add your perspective

Tessa Veenboer

Strategic Pursuit Lead and Bid Director @ M+N Project Management | Business Coaching & Training | Consultant
Report contribution
Learning from others is so important! The purpose of completing a training or reading a book to learn about a subject is nothing else than gaining knowledge on a subject. Accordingly, you need to see others apply the technique, seek out a community or mentor who can guide you with the application and hold you accountable. In today's world being part of a community with people who all have the same learning target, however are of different levels can be the best place to find the right information when you need this.

Like

5 Adapt and improve

The fifth step is to adapt and improve your approach and results based on your learning and feedback. You can use techniques such as iteration, experimentation, or optimization to make changes, test alternatives, or enhance performance. You can also use tools such as analytics, surveys, or reviews to measure the impact, value, or satisfaction of your problem or project. For example, if you are creating a website, you could use Google Analytics to track the traffic, conversions, or bounce rate of your site, and use A/B testing to compare different versions of your site.

Add your perspective

Alexander Mai

Freelancer | M.Sc. in Business & Psychology
Report contribution
I apply my learning to real-world problems by adapting new knowledge to current projects, experimenting with innovative solutions, and continuously improving processes. This hands-on approach helps me refine my skills and contribute effectively to achieving project goals.

Like

6 Celebrate and share

The sixth and final step is to celebrate and share your achievements and learnings with others. You can use methods such as recognition, rewards, or gratitude to acknowledge your efforts, accomplishments, and learnings. You can also use channels such as portfolios, presentations, or publications to showcase your work, demonstrate your skills, or contribute to your field. For example, if you are writing a blog in a foreign language, you could create a portfolio of your best articles, present your blog at a language event, or publish your blog in a magazine or online platform.

Add your perspective

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?

Add your perspective

How can you apply your learning to real-world problems or projects?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Identify a problem or project

2 Plan your approach

3 Apply and reflect

4 Learn from others

5 Adapt and improve

6 Celebrate and share

7 Here’s what else to consider

Self-directed Learning

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Self-directed Learning

More relevant reading