Based on the provided reference, "side learning" is the phrase an informant used to describe how self-directed learning works for him. This means it is a personal term describing an individual's unique process of taking charge of their own learning journey.
Understanding Side Learning
The term "side learning," as presented in the reference, is not a universally defined educational concept. Instead, it's a specific way one person articulated their personal experience with self-directed learning.
- Self-Directed Learning: This is an educational approach where individuals take the initiative and responsibility for their own learning. It involves:
- Identifying learning needs.
- Setting learning goals.
- Finding resources.
- Choosing learning strategies.
- Evaluating learning outcomes.
When the informant used the phrase "side learning," they were essentially giving a name to their personal methodology within the broader scope of self-directed learning. It highlights how they specifically approach learning new things or developing skills outside of traditional structured environments like classrooms or formal training programs.
How Might "Side Learning" Work for an Individual?
While the reference doesn't give specific details about how this informant's "side learning" worked, the concept implies a process that is:
- Independent: Driven by personal curiosity or necessity.
- Flexible: Adaptable to the individual's schedule, interests, and pace.
- Exploratory: Often involves discovering resources and methods along the way.
- Integrated: Potentially fits alongside other activities, work, or studies (hence "side").
Consider these potential aspects of a "side learning" process:
- Reading books or articles on a topic of interest.
- Watching tutorials or online courses.
- Practicing a skill through personal projects.
- Experimenting and learning from mistakes.
- Joining online communities or forums for knowledge sharing.
- Setting personal learning goals and tracking progress informally.
In essence, "side learning" in this context is a personal descriptor for the dynamic, often informal, process of acquiring knowledge and skills when the individual is the primary architect and driver of their education.
Key Takeaway
The term "side learning," as reported on 17-Aug-2014, is a specific individual's personal description of their self-directed learning process. It emphasizes the self-managed nature of their learning activities, likely undertaken outside of a formal or structured setting.