Learning is important, but it's not serious.
Gayle Smerdon, PhD
An author and keynote speaker on Workplace Culture and Wellbeing
I am pretty keen on the distinction between what is important and what is serious. And my concern stems from our propensity for using these two terms somewhat interchangeably.
When something is serious, it tends to be graver, sombre, more earnest and not frivolous. But many important things - things that matter, are consequential and significant - need not be serious. For me, one of those important-but-not-serious things is how we learn.
Making learning enjoyable and fun isn't just about having a good time; it significantly impacts learning outcomes by creating greater engagement and retention. It also triggers positive emotions, which lowers stress, allowing you to absorb information more effectively. When learning is fun, and you can see your skills and capabilities improving, it helps to foster lifelong learning habits.
Fun is just another word for learning. Raph Koster.
So, how do you create learning that engages and is fun?
Make it a game: Introduce elements of gamification. While most people think about apps and platforms, I love going old school and creating board games and quizzes. No high-tech is required. Just find ways to reward progress and make the experience enjoyable.
Hands-on enjoyment: Engage in hands-on activities that apply what you've learned. Getting people involved and creating experiments and practical applications can make learning more meaningful and enjoyable.
Multimedia magic: Exploring different formats keeps learning dynamic and caters to diverse learning styles. Or better still, create your own designs, videos, podcasts, etc.
Get it together: Join study groups or discussion forums to share ideas, perspectives, and knowledge. Collaborative learning not only enhances understanding but also makes the process more satisfying.
Incorporate creativity: Encourage creative expression in your learning process. Use art, storytelling, or music to relate concepts to your interests, making them more relatable and memorable.And don't just consider this for workshops and training sessions. You can also incorporate it into how your team works and learns together.
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Now, I might have a few ideas about how to make this happen for your team, so, get in touch.
Until next time,
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Until next time,
University Executive Officer
1yLove your work, Gayle.
✴️Making Transformation, Transformative Again ❇️ Unlock impact, growth, and resilience that stand the test of time 🟦 Elevating leaders to drive meaningful change with confidence, mastery, influence, and enduring impact
1yGreat approach, Gayle! Balancing work and learning with a touch of fun is key to fostering a positive and engaging atmosphere. Keeping things light-hearted can enhance creativity and collaboration.
Consultant travel and tourism
1yDr. Gayle..... simplified narrative.....so easy recipe.
I am an ECFMG (USA) Certified doctor, recently completed my fellowship in Internal Medicine , have also passed my usmle step 3 exam. At present , I am doing my fellowship in Cardiology .
1yTrue. I Agree. When we make the things interesting, it act as a motivation to do those things, like learning.
Leadership Futurist l Strategist l Multiple Award Winning Author l Podcaster. Showing leaders how to navigate the future.
1yIt's an effort to get creative, especially at this time of year, but so worthwhile! end of year team days don't all have to be about the drinks and nibbles.