🧠 Mastering the Art of Learning

In last week's article, we delved into some of the insights that can be gathered from our vendors. This week, our focus shifts to the dynamic field of learning with our training program, available both online and live at the TechCon.

🧠 📚 | 📚🏫📝 | 🎧✍🏼 what is learning? ⋆˙⟡

Learning is a multifaceted process involving the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and understanding through diverse methods. Individuals exhibit varying preferences, aptitudes, and contexts that influence the effectiveness of their learning experiences.

Focused and Diffuse Thinking Unveiled

In the pursuit of mastering learning, our brains engage two distinctive modes of thinking: focused and diffuse. Each mode holds equal value but serves distinct purposes. To achieve optimal performance, it is essential to navigate between both.

Barbara Oakley gained acclaim for popularizing the concept of focused and diffuse thinking, a concept she, in collaboration with Olav Schewe, extensively explores in their book "Learn Like a Pro". In this insightful work, they shed light on the distinctiveness of these thinking modes, illustrating the dynamic interplay that occurs throughout the day. They stress the ongoing pursuit of genuine focus, advocating for the embrace of deep work, flow states, and highly productive sessions that yield tangible results. While the learning process predominantly unfolds during focused modes, understanding and valuing the importance of the diffuse mode is equally indispensable.

If you're uncertain whether the book aligns with your interests, consider exploring their free online course.

So now we know ... learning is something we practice every day!

And true mastery of a subject emerges when one can articulate a complex topic in simple terms.

Let's illustrate this concept with a simple example

Have you ever wondered about the mechanics behind a straw?

🍹🥤🧋A straw functions by enabling you to generate a vacuum when you draw the air out of it. Now, ponder this: Would a straw still serve its purpose in space?

Let's take a thoughtful sip of knowledge... and the answer: No, a straw wouldn't be effective in space. Its functionality hinges on Earth's atmosphere, where you create a vacuum by removing air. In the vacuum of space, devoid of any air, the medium necessary for the straw's pressure difference is absent. As a result, the typical suction mechanism of a straw would be rendered ineffective in the airless expanse of space.

Learning is important for us and we strive to make our vision come to life:

"To provide a dynamic global forum for transitioning and commercializing thin film and surface engineering innovation to industry"

or to put it simply - to share the knowledge. That is why we also have lots of free and accessible training for users. For example, to learn more about Vacuum and Vacuum Coating by Don McClure you can simply check out our YouTube channel!

While we provide a wealth of free information, we also offer tutorials that come with a nominal fee. Why? Well, creating these tutorials involves a significant amount of work, from in-depth research to expert insights and practical demonstrations. Your investment in these tutorials directly supports the effort we put into developing high-quality, comprehensive learning resources.

We believe in the value of detailed tutorials that go the extra mile to enhance your understanding. The paid tutorials are crafted to offer an immersive learning experience, enabling you to delve deeper into the intricate world of thin film and surface engineering.

However as pointed out before, we're also passionate about making knowledge accessible. That's why, with full registration at TechCon, you get a complimentary tutorial of your choice 🎁!

Discover two of many exclusive tutorials specially curated for this year's TechCon:

🧠 Mastering PVD Processes: A Comprehensive Workshop by S. Ismat Shah

Dive deep into the realm of Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) processes with this day-long workshop conducted by renowned expert S. Ismat Shah from the University of Delaware. This immersive tutorial covers the fundamentals of vacuum technology, detailed descriptions of various PVD techniques (including vacuum evaporation, sputter deposition, arc vapor deposition, ion plating, ion beam sputtering, and laser ablation), and the critical aspects of film growth and surface engineering. The workshop uniquely integrates focused and diffuse learning methods, allowing participants to absorb intricate technical details while fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.

🧠 Demystifying RGA and MSLD: Fundamentals, Best Practices, and Case Studies

Join this one-day workshop to unravel the fundamentals of residual gas analyzers (RGA) and helium mass spectrometer leak detectors (MSLD). Professor John F. O'Hanlon guides participants through background concepts, instrument components, analyzing mass spectra, additional RGA techniques, and leak detection methods. Gain insights into the practical aspects of RGA, such as sampling background gases, detecting leaks, and utilizing best practices. The workshop concludes with real-world case studies, showcasing the capability of RGAs in solving complex production and development challenges. Participants will leave with a solid understanding of RGA and MSLD fundamentals and the ability to apply them in real-world scenarios.

Our commitment remains rooted in fostering a community where knowledge flows freely, but your support through paid tutorials helps us continue to bring you valuable, in-depth learning opportunities. We're excited to share this journey with you and invite you to explore the diverse learning avenues we have to offer! 🌐📚

For more information go to our website and hopefully, we see you in Chicago! Don't forget April 1, is the extended submission deadline 📑⏰

See you soon, and thanks for spending your time here with us!